France has become one of rugby’s true powerhouses—on and off the field. With a growing professional league, a passionate fanbase, and a national team filled with stars like Antoine Dupont, the sport has exploded in popularity in recent decades. But how did rugby go from a regional pastime in the southwest to a national obsession?
We’ve broken it down into 13 key reasons that explain why rugby is now such a major force in French sports culture.
Rugby Before Football
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In the 1980s, in southwestern France, rugby wasn’t just a sport—it was a cultural centerpiece. Cities like Béziers, Agen, and especially Toulouse were rugby strongholds, and Saturdays were for gathering with neighbors to watch the matches. It united men and women, young and old, around a shared passion.
Rugby in France started as an amateur sport but slowly gained momentum. With the rise of a professional league and international success, the game turned into a point of national pride. In 2023, France hosted the Rugby World Cup, drawing over 2.4 million fans.
The comic character Superdupont was once a tongue-in-cheek symbol of Frenchness. Today, rugby has its own real-life version in Antoine Dupont, a generational talent nicknamed “the Martian” for his otherworldly skills. He’s become a modern cultural icon.
An English Invention, a French Obsession
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Rugby was born in England nearly 200 years ago, but the French made it their own. After joining the Five Nations tournament in 1910, France slowly earned its place among the elite, transforming from underdogs into global contenders.
From Embarrassing Losses to Glory Days
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In the early 1900s, France suffered heavy defeats to rugby giants like New Zealand and England. But persistence paid off, and today, the French national team is one of the most respected in the world, with a flair that’s uniquely French.
A Sport of Roughness and Respect
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Rugby may be physically brutal, but it’s built on values like honor, respect, and team spirit. Unlike many other sports, rugby players are known for upholding traditions of sportsmanship—even after the hardest hits.
The basic objective is clear: score a try by grounding the ball in the opponent’s end zone. But between backward passes, scrums, lineouts, and point conversions, rugby’s depth can be overwhelming—and part of its charm.
A Regional Stronghold with National Reach
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Southwestern France remains rugby’s heartland. From small villages to university towns, the sport has flourished. Though once linked to elite academic circles, rugby now spans all social classes, drawing in fans from across the country.
Rugby’s Spiritual Side
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In France, rugby isn’t just tactics—it’s about beauty, philosophy, and spirit. Coaches and commentators often speak of “le beau jeu” (the beautiful game), emphasizing style and camaraderie over pure results.
The Legendary Third Half
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Rugby comes with a tradition few other sports can match—the third half. After the game, players and fans gather in bars and cafés to drink, sing, and celebrate together. It’s where rivalries fade and friendships are formed.
Fabien Galthié, the current head coach, is known not only for his tactical mind but also for his iconic glasses. Designed by French brand Demetz, they’ve become part of his signature look—and are now even sold as kids’ merchandise.
Toulouse: Capital of European Rugby
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Stade Toulousain is the most decorated club in France and arguably Europe, with 20 domestic titles. The city of Toulouse has become rugby’s spiritual and competitive capital, producing some of the sport’s finest talents.
Antoine Dupont: King of the Game
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Dupont captains both Toulouse and the French national team. In 2024, he added Olympic gold and a Sevens World Cup title to an already packed resume. Admired for his game sense and leadership, he’s the face of modern rugby in France.
