A little over three months after the brutal elimination in the quarter-final of the World Cup against South Africa, the French XV returns to the forefront. The Blues begin their Tournament against the reigning Irish champion this Friday February 2 (9 p.m.). The match will exceptionally be played at the Marseille Vélodrome, the Stade de France being under construction in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Led by new captain Grégory Alldritt, Fabien Galthié’s men will have to do without Antoine Dupont, who will prepare for the Olympics with his future rugby sevens teammates. The Irish will do without Sexton, who is retired, but also without Jimmy O ‘Brien or Mack Hansen, injured. The shock will be followed on France 2 and live with commentary on the Figaro.fr website.