Antoine Dupont ruled out as France faces New Zealand in Nations Championship

Antoine Dupont France rugby New Zealand Nations Championship calf injury

France’s rugby captain Antoine Dupont will miss the opening match of the 2026 Nations Championship against New Zealand after an MRI revealed a calf lesion following the Top 14 final. Dupont announced his absence on social media, expressing regret and wishing his teammates luck for the Southern‑hemisphere tour that also includes games against Australia and Japan.

Coach Fabien Galthié named Paul Graou as the backup scrum‑half, with Maxime Lucu and Nolann Le Garrec also selected for the New Zealand fixture. Damian Penaud will lead the side on the field as France seek to break a 17‑year winless streak in New Zealand.

The match is scheduled for 09:10 CET on 4 July 2026 in Christchurch and will be broadcast live.

Sources

Antoine Dupont : pourquoi le capitaine du XV de France est absent du match France - Nouvelle-Zélande ? [www.linternaute.com]

29 days ago

En direct Rugby. Penaud lance les Bleus, entame délicate pour les All Blacks : suivez Nouvelle-Zélande - France [www.bienpublic.com]

29 days ago