A group of deputies has introduced a bill to grant honorary Chilean citizenship to Uruguayan Pablo Lemoine, the current head coach of the national rugby team, Los Cóndores. The initiative aims to recognize the coach's work in developing the sport within the country.
The proposal is led by Pier Karlezi of the National Libertarian Party. The bill enjoys broad support from a cross-party group of legislators, including Álvaro Jofre (PNL), Hans Marowski (PNL), Javier Olivares (PDG), Álvaro Ortiz (DC), Joanna Pérez (Demócratas), Omar Sabat (Independent), Marisela Santibáñez (Independent), Carolina Tello (Frente Amplio), and Cristóbal Urruticoechea (PNL).
The initiative has been formally submitted to Congress and is currently undergoing initial review by the Chamber's Committee on Internal Government, Nationality, Citizenship, and Regionalization. Following this stage, the proposal must undergo the standard legislative process for approval.
Transforming Chilean rugby
Under Lemoine's leadership, Los Cóndores have undergone a significant transformation in less than a decade. According to reports from La Tercera, the national team went from being considered the weakest in South America to qualifying for its first two consecutive World Cups.
The Uruguayan coach's work has driven the professionalization of competitions and improved player preparation within the country. This process has established Lemoine as a fundamental pillar of the long-term project to grow rugby in Chile.
The coach expressed his emotion regarding the parliamentary gesture. In a video, Lemoine shared his gratitude for the recognition of his work and his desire to formally become part of the nation.
“I want to extend a huge thank you to them, because truly, to have them make me part of their culture, of their people, by granting me citizenship, to be a real part of a country that I already feel is my own... Thank you so much, and I hope it happens,” the coach said.
Lemoine arrived in Chile in September 2018 to take over as head coach of the federation. His appointment was championed by Agustín Pichot and received the support of Olympic Committee President Miguel Ángel Mujica, as well as backing from World Rugby.
