DAVID BARNES
Montpellier chairman Mohed Altrad, born to a Bedouin tribe in the desert, has built a global empire that turns over billions. Unfortunately for him, none of that cash can buy him the love of French rugby, a game he did not even know seven years ago. Even though he is the largest single contributor to the financial health of the sport.
The figures are remarkable. He says he has spent up to £20m from his own pocket to lever Montpellier from mediocrity to the top of the Top 14. The name of Altrad, already used for the club stadium, is now emblazoned on the national team shir...