Frank Leboeuf, the 57-year-old former world champion footballer, is facing significant challenges in his participation in 'Danse avec les stars 2025' after suffering a leg injury that forced him to withdraw from the prime event scheduled for March 14, 2025. The injury was serious enough that Leboeuf relied on a crutch to get around, revealing the physical toll of his active competitive endeavors.
This injury couldn't have come at a worse time for Leboeuf, who is trying to navigate the rigors of the demanding dance competition while aiming for recovery. Despite the setback, he remains determined. "I know that I won’t fully recover," he admitted, emphasizing the need to deal with the lingering effects of the injury. Adams Reed, his dance partner, Candice Pascal, has been adjusting their choreography to accommodate his condition. "It’s about knowing how to bounce back and returning stronger on the dance floor, that’s the goal," Pascal pointed out, echoing Leboeuf's resolve.
Leboeuf’s dedication is reminiscent of his earlier reality television struggles. Between the physical exertions of dancing and the emotional challenges embedded in performing in front of live audiences, he draws parallels to his experience on the popular survival show 'Koh-Lanta', which he participated in back in 2010. Under extreme conditions, he and his co-contestants struggled to find food and adapt to survival dynamics. “Nothing was edible and most animals on the island were protected,” he recalled. This difficult setting forced them to improvise and get creative with their diets, including resorting to eating rice in the sun and sea shells for breakfast.
Reflecting on that experience brought back feelings of exhaustion so profound that he broke down in tears after the first few days. "I cried so much because I was tired after three days," he confessed, revealing how the grueling conditions took a toll on his mental health. Yet, even with the rigorous challenges that 'Koh-Lanta' presented, he acknowledged a hope for returning. “It was an extraordinary adventure that reflects the society in which we live,” he remarked, indicating that despite the hardships, he would consider joining the program again.
Leboeuf's time on 'Koh-Lanta' contrasts sharply with his current endeavors in dance, where he now finds himself preparing for the upcoming tasks in 'Danse avec les stars'. His hard work and perseverance were evident as he prepared for the next performance, a paso doble to the hit song ‘Bella Ciao’ by Gims. They have sculpted their routine carefully to not strain his recovering muscles while still aiming to impress the judges and public alike.
In addition to his focus on dance, Leboeuf manages a property in Aix-en-Provence that serves as a haven during his busy schedule. “I built a great house with an indoor pool in Aix-en-Provence,” he mentioned, expressing pride in his investments throughout his football career, where he earned up to €130,000 a month, a substantial salary that allowed him to enjoy his retiree life comfortably.
Leboeuf also possesses a second home in Normandy, which adds to his tranquil lifestyle predominantly based in picturesque surroundings. He has not only succeeded in sports and reality TV but has transitioned well into various forms of entertainment, taking on roles in theatre and television while maintaining a presence in commentary and analysis for football.
As Leboeuf gears up for their upcoming performance on March 21, alongside his supportive partner Candice Pascal and the spectating mystery dancer, Vincent Moscato, he is resolved to maintain his spirits high, seeking both recovery and performance satisfaction. “The past week has been challenging, but we’re focusing on making it work the best we can,” he stated, highlighting the camaraderie shared with Pascal.
With determination and resilience rooted in his past experiences, Frank Leboeuf aims not just to recover but also to thrive, carving a new legacy on the dance floor with the same passion that characterized his football days. Leboeuf embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and showmanship, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, how one responds can truly define their journey.
