Stuart Hogg releases statement after latest controversy

A Police Scotland spokesperson confirmed that Hogg, now playing for Montpellier in France, was detained last month before being released without charge.

Responding to the reports, Hogg insisted no criminal charges have been brought against him and hit out at what he described as “false and defamatory” media coverage surrounding an ongoing private family matter.

I will not be making any further comment on private family matters at this time.”

“There has been no criminal charges brought against me in relation to recent matters that have been reported in the media.

Recent coverage has included speculation and commentary once again relating to a private family matter. I cooperated fully with enquiries with Police Scotland and left shortly after. I continue and always have respect for the legal process.

I have been involved in private family proceedings before the Scottish courts. As is common in these cases, there are legal restrictions which prevent me from discussing the details publicly. These restrictions exist to protect the integrity of the legal process and, most importantly, the privacy and wellbeing of our children involved.

For that reason, I cannot respond publicly to many of the false and defamatory claims or commentary that continue to appear in the media.

It is frustrating to see private family matters repeatedly turned into headlines, where people are profiteering from feeding the media fake news. While I am legally unable to explain the full circumstances, stories built on partial information inevitably create a distorted picture of my life and my family’s life — this is extremely unfair and damaging.

I understand that public life brings scrutiny and I have always accepted that and taken responsibility for my actions. However, reporting should remain accurate and responsible, particularly where ongoing family proceedings and children are involved.

The welfare and privacy of my children must come before public commentary, which is why I will not discuss matters that are properly before the court.

Media organisations should remain mindful that reporting relating to family proceedings and children may engage legal protections under Scottish law. Writing fabricated stories and half-truths is unfair to all involved in my life.

I have cooperated with the authorities and will continue to respect the legal process. The truth of the situation will come through the proper legal channels rather than speculation.

I am first and foremost a father and a professional rugby player. My focus remains on my children, my career and moving forward.