The French rugby team has once again made headlines by clinching the 2025 Six Nations Championship, solidifying their reputation as one of the leading teams in international rugby. On March 15, 2025, they secured victory against Scotland at the Stade de France with a decisive score of 35-16, marking yet another significant achievement for the team.
Following their triumphant win, players celebrated the momentous occasion on the barge "Mademoiselle Mouche," moored near the iconic Eiffel Tower. With around 400 guests present, the festivities continued late through the night, with key players, including celebrated captain Antoine Dupont, making their presence felt even as he dealt with the aftermath of his recent knee injury.
Dupont's leadership was undoubtedly felt throughout the tournament, as expressed by his teammate Grégory Alldritt, who said, "My dream this week was for Antoine Dupont to lift the cup with us tonight." Alldritt's sentiments echoed the collective aspirations of the team, with Dupont being viewed as the heart of the squad, even during his absence due to injury. His commitment and influence on the team were evident as they battled through each match.
On March 17, the tournament organizers announced the nominations for the best player of the competition, highlighting four standout athletes: the French winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey, English back Tommy Freeman, Italian center Tommaso Menoncello, and Scottish fullback Blair Kinghorn. The announcement of Bielle-Biarrey's nomination came as no surprise, as he was one of the key performers throughout the tournament.
Bielle-Biarrey distinguished himself by scoring eight tries over the course of five matches, setting a new record for most tries within the current Six Nations format, previously held by Jacob Stockdale with seven tries. His impact on the pitch was palpable and fundamental to France's successful campaign. The 2025 edition marks his first nomination for the prestigious award, and fans are enthusiastic about his chances of winning.
Freeman also marked his presence by scoring tries in all five matches the English team played. Menoncello, known as last year's tournament's best player, showcased his defensive skills with 59 tackles and added significant contributions to his team’s play. Kinghorn's performance was highlighted by his attacking prowess, evidenced by 86 ball carries totaling 860 meters, which included 575 meters gained.
The voting for the best player award will remain open until March 24, creating anticipation among rugby fans eager to voice their opinions on the tournament's standout performers. The award has previously been won by the likes of Antoine Dupont on three occasions—2020, 2022, and 2023—and with Bielle-Biarrey now in the running, fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the results.
While the celebrations carried on, the absence of coach Fabien Galthié raised questions among spectators and commentators. Due to personal obligations, Galthié was not present at the celebrations, signaling the importance of personal commitments even amid professional triumphs. His decision not to attend the festivities spurred conversations and reflections on the team's collective achievement without their head coach on the sidelines.
Though missing the celebrations, Galthié's leadership continues to reflect strongly within the squad he has nurtured. The French rugby team stands poised to continue its legacy of excellence, balancing the expectations of fans with the realities of international competition and personal responsibilities.
Reflecting on the tournament as a whole, the camaraderie and spirit of the French team have shone brightly, proving they can achieve greatness together, even when faced with challenges such as injuries and personal sacrifices. With Antoine Dupont rehabilitating and watching from the sidelines, his teammates ensured their collective success on the field and recognized his irreplaceable role within the team dynamic.
Following their significant win and the acknowledgments for outstanding individual performances, the excitement surrounding the French rugby team remains at fever pitch as they look forward to the next season and the potential of adding more silverware to their collection.
