Dominique Pelicot has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for repeatedly drugging his wife and inviting strangers to rape her.

Mr Pelicot confessed to mixing sedatives into her food and drink.

The court also found 47 other defendants guilty of rape, two guilty of attempted rape and two guilty of sexual assault.

Admitting to his crimes, he told the court he is "a rapist, just like all the others in this room".

Ms Pelicot waived her right to anonymity and insisted the trial was held in public.

She also asked for the court in Avignon show the explicit videos of the rape recorded by her husband.

"It's not for us to have shame, it's for them," she said.

Gisele Pelicot leaves the Avignon courthouse, December 16, 2024. Credit: Abaca Press/Alamy Live News

It is a case that has shocked France and made headlines around the world, with mass protests against sexual violence held across Europe.

Women across the world have shown solidarity with Ms Pelicot, including in protests in Paris.

Crowds, mostly made up of women, flocked to the courthouse to show their support for Ms Pelicot during the trial - waiting hours to get inside, and holding up signs that read: "Gisele: Women thank you."

Ms Pelicot was seen smiling as she arrived at court this morning where her supporters were already gathered.

She told waiting reporters she will speak after the verdicts have been delivered.

Her supporters shouted "justice for Gisele" and applauded her as she made her way to the courthouse.

Feature image shows Gisele Pelicot outside the courthouse, Alamy.

Reporting by IRN.