During the press conference announcing the composition of the French XV for the trip to Cardiff, this Sunday (4 p.m.) as part of the Six Nations Tournament, Fabien Galthié was questioned about the success of his former captain, Antoine Dupont , with the French team at 7.
The Blues coach initially fiercely denied feeling a pang in his heart at not counting him in these ranks for this Tournament. “This project has existed for two years. In April 2022, after our Grand Slam, Antoine and Jérôme Daret (the coach of France 7) spoke to me about it. And I tell them: “Well done, it’s great. For us, Antoine will free up a place which will allow other players to take on these responsibilities…” I am the first supporter of the team of France at 7.”
Then asked about the success of the first steps of the Toulouse scrum half at 7 (bronze medal at the Vancouver tournament, winner of the Los Angeles tournament), Fabien Galthié assured to be delighted. “I am so proud that this team managed to win this trophy after having been running since 2005. It gives hope to the entire rugby sevens industry. We will be their first supporters during the Olympics. So I am very happy for France 7, very happy for Antoine, who took up the challenge after only one month at 7. It seems to me that this boy has talent and that he is gifted,” he added in laughing.
And to hope that this experience will also benefit his team. “It’s also time saved for the XV of France. If I plan ahead, this investment by Antoine will bear fruit in view of the 2027 World Cup.”
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