French rugby players quizzed in Scotland after brawl reports

EDINBURGH, Scotland (AP) Scottish police cleared French rugby players of wrongdoing after questioning them following a report of sexual assault on Monday.

After talking to players and potential witnesses at Edinburgh airport, Police Scotland said no crime was committed.

A police spokesman told the Press Association news agency that the French players were questioned in connection with a report of a sexual assault in downtown Edinburgh early Monday following Scotland's 32-26 win over France in the Six Nations.

The French rugby federation confirmed in a brief statement that some players were questioned, but did not elaborate.

Rugby news website Rugbyrama said seven players were detained early Monday after the plane carrying the French back home was held in Edinburgh during the quick investigation.

Reports also suggested the players were detained because they were involved in a fight in an Edinburgh bar following their loss. The manager in charge of events at the Tigerlily bar confirmed that the French players spent the evening at the venue but said there were no incidents.

France wasted a 20-14 halftime lead in Sunday's loss. It had also lost its opening match to Ireland 15-13 in Paris.