Antoine Dupont is set to make his much-anticipated return to France’s 15-a-side team this weekend after more than a year away, a period during which he secured an Olympic gold medal in rugby sevens at the 2024 Paris Games. The dynamic 27-year-old captain, who last represented Les Bleus in their narrow Rugby World Cup quarterfinal defeat to South Africa in October 2023, expressed his excitement ahead of France’s matchup against Japan at the Stade de France.
“It was a bit long without playing with the 15s side, so I was eager to find the balance, to be back with the guys and at the Stade de France,” Dupont shared during a press conference on Friday. The scrum-half’s absence has been keenly felt by the national side, as he brings unparalleled leadership, vision, and agility to the field. He reassured fans and teammates alike by adding, “I’m very happy, I wasn’t lost.”
Dupont's return adds to an already impressive resume that boasts a Six Nations title and numerous domestic triumphs with Toulouse. Winning Olympic gold further cements his status as a generational talent, though the World Cup remains the elusive pinnacle. Looking ahead to the 2027 tournament in Australia, Dupont reflected, “Even if it feels far away, I think we now have the experience and maturity to say we’re working with the goal to be at our best in three years.”
His re-entry into the France squad coincides with a period of internal upheaval following off-field controversies during their summer tour in South America. The French Rugby Federation (FFR) has since implemented a stricter behavioral code, which Dupont supports as a measure to preserve the team’s image and reinforce their responsibilities. “We know we have a public image to uphold and responsibilities, on and off the field,” he said, emphasizing that while no significant shifts were needed, clarity was introduced to align conduct with their professional standards.
On the field, Dupont will partner with Thomas Ramos at half-back, stepping in for the injured Romain Ntamack. The combination of Dupont and Ramos is familiar to fans of Toulouse, where their seamless coordination has been pivotal. Addressing this change, Dupont remarked, “We have our bearings. There are no problems with that,” noting the adaptability and shared tactical understanding between him and Ramos.
As France prepares to take on Japan, all eyes will be on their talismanic captain. His presence is not only a tactical boost but a symbol of resilience and excellence for a team eager to reestablish itself on the world stage.
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