The unnamed players were relieved of their duties after police launched an investigation into claims that a woman was subjected to a sexual assault following the team's Top 14 defeat away to Bordeaux-Begles this month.

Grenoble performed a U-turn on Thursday (AEDT), revealing that the six players are free to return to the club as the investigation continues.

A club statement said: "On March 17th ... FC Grenoble Rugby decided to lay off six professional players.

"These players were summoned as part of an investigation ... opened in Bordeaux on 12 March. FC Grenoble Rugby made the decision, saying that players should benefit from the presumption of innocence.

"To date, no charge has been made against the players following their police custody. FC Grenoble Rugby has decided to lift the lay-off and reinstate these players, while reserving the right to take further action in the event of new information being brought to its attention in the course of the preliminary investigation.

"FC Grenoble wants to reaffirm once again that its sole will is the manifestation of truth."