France’s Rugby Superstar to Miss Six Nations for Olympics
France’s rugby superstar, Antoine Dupont, is gearing up to miss the 2024 Six Nations as he sets his sights on the Paris Olympics. The captain of the French team is all set to switch formats and play rugby sevens at the Olympics, fulfilling a long-held desire.
According to reports from AFP, Dupont will be skipping the Six Nations to focus on honing his skills in the World Rugby sevens series, now known as SVNS. A press conference scheduled for Monday is expected to shed light on his complete plans, with indications that Dupont will link up with the France sevens squad in January.
Exciting Times Ahead
In a statement last December, Dupont expressed his enthusiasm for the Olympics, stating, “It’s highly motivating. It’s incredible when you see the enthusiasm it can create. There is a desire from my side to put things in place for me to participate. It will be a discussion between the different coaching staffs.”
The 27-year-old, who was named Six Nations Player of the Championship in 2023 and 2022, has been a standout performer for France. Despite their recent Rugby World Cup disappointment, his absence will undoubtedly be felt by head coach Fabien Galthie as he looks to steer the team back to success.
Impact on Toulouse
Antoine Dupont’s decision will also have implications for Toulouse, with the possibility of him missing a significant portion of their season. However, the club has shown understanding and support for his aspirations.
Ugo Mola, the head coach of Toulouse, acknowledged Dupont’s desire to participate in the Olympics, saying, “I can understand why Antoine, at 26 and after three French championships, a European Cup, a [Six Nations] Grand Slam and – I hope! – a World Cup, would want to play in the Olympics in France. Antoine, Christophe Reigt and Jerome Daret and I have been talking. The Federation seems open [to it], as do the league and our president, too. All the indicators are green. We’re getting ready to spend half a season or a full season without him.”
Joining Forces at the Olympics
In addition to Dupont, three other French stars are reportedly set to join him at the Paris Olympics, adding to the excitement surrounding the upcoming event.
As the rugby world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Six Nations, the absence of Antoine Dupont will undoubtedly be felt. However, his decision to pursue his Olympic dream reflects his passion for the sport and the opportunity to represent his country on a global stage.
The French rugby community and fans will undoubtedly rally behind Dupont as he embarks on this new chapter in his illustrious career.