Romain Ntamack Dreams Of Summer Tour: French Team Eyed For New Zealand Trip
Rugby fans are buzzing as Romain Ntamack, the prodigious French international rugby player, expressed his ambition to participate in the upcoming summer tour to New Zealand. This announcement came just after the French national team, commonly known as Les Bleus, celebrated their recent victory over Scotland, with a decisive score of 35-16 at Stade de France during the Six Nations Tournament on March 15, 2025.
While this victory was marked as another achievement for France, the spotlight quickly shifted to the looming summer tour set for July 2025, where the Treble Champions will face the All Blacks on their home turf. The three-test match series, with dates confirmed for July 5 (Dunedin), July 12 (Wellington), and July 19 (Hamilton), brings forth the excitement of international competition. Interestingly, this upcoming series is significant as France managed to narrowly beat New Zealand 30 to 29 just months prior, leading to heightened anticipation on both sides.
Ntamack, whose passion for playing on New Zealand soil echoes throughout his statements, is pushing for potential exceptions for Top 14 finalists who often miss out on such prestigious tours. Current conventions dictate players from the teams competing for the Top 14 final are typically exempt from international duty. This has ignited speculation and discussion, especially since the tour presents unique opportunities to showcase skills on the international stage.
Jean-Marc Lhermet, a key figure within French rugby circles, hinted at the possibility of exemptions for Top 14 finalists, stating, “There might be exceptions to the rule.” This could open avenues for selected players to join the tour and possibly alter the dynamics of squad selections. Ntamack’s earlier comments included his desire to play, even if Toulouse reaches the final, emphasizing, “A tour to New Zealand is unique. It’s my dream to play there, so if I can go, I will.” Some may feel this ambitious narrative could be seen as lobbying for change, though it aligns with the desires of players eager to test themselves against top-ranked opponents.
For many, including Laurent Sempéré, the assistant to coach Fabien Galthié, this newly reignited interest from star players marks a significant change. Traditionally, summer tours have served to rest key players after intense competition seasons like the Top 14 and Six Nations tournaments. Players like Ntamack, who proficiently navigated the recent Six Nations, are demonstrating their commitment and eagerness to continue growing both individually and as part of the national squad.
Sempéré commented, "It’s telling to see so many players wanting to participate, especially the leaders who don’t want to give up their jerseys after the successes of recent tournaments." He indicated the significance of this tour and displayed admiration for players willing to sacrifice vacation for competition, underscoring how this approach shows the team spirit and solid camaraderie among players.
Historically, the French national team has faced criticism from New Zealand for sending under-strength squads. With the absence of key players traditionally seen as acceptable due to the Top 14 finals, recent sentiments hint at shifting attitudes on the part of French rugby authorities who may now seek to accommodate and involve key players eager to join, thereby emphasizing the importance of this competition.
Currently, the decision is left between the French Rugby Federation (FFR) and Stade Toulousain to find compromises and ascertain which players can partake. Many players, including Greg Alldritt, indicated they too are willing to participate, potentially adding weight to arguments for exceptions. The FFR-LNR convention allows for adjustments depending on circumstances, and there's hope for creative solutions to this dilemma.
To conclude, as the countdown to this historic tour commences, the anticipation among players and supporters is palpable. With the pressure to deliver not just competitive matches, but competitive spirits, France begins preparing not just for football matches on New Zealand's hallowed grounds but for the spirit of rugby itself, reviving old rivalries and possibly cultivating new friendships on the international stage. Only time will tell how many will join, but the enthusiasm is certainly inspiring and indicates brighter prospects for the future of French rugby on the global canvas.
