The end of a dream. For Emmanuel Meafou. But also Fabien Galthié. According to information from La Dépêche and L’Equipe, the second line of Stade Toulousain will not be able to wear the jersey of the XV of France. Not for the World Cup anyway.
Considered among the best in his position in the Top 14, Emmanuel Meafou dreamed of playing in the next World Cup in France. The Australian had even already tasted the France group for a week during the last Six Nations Tournament. On several occasions, Fabien Galthié has expressed his desire to “capture” the player born in New Zealand.
However, the 24-year-old cannot yet represent France. This requires, and according to World Rugby, five years of residence in the country. Gold Emmanuel Meafou joined the hexagon in November 2018. The XV of France had thus requested a derogation from the organization which governs world rugby. Permission that was denied.
Emmanuel Meafou, currently injured since the last Top 14 final and absent for about two months, will therefore have to wait until 2024 and the next Six Nations Tournament to put on the blue tunic.
