Antoine Dupont has returned to the French national team as part of Fabien Galthié's squad for this November's Autumn Nations Series - and it's expected he will pick up the captaincy once again. Even if it was never in doubt, given the unparalleled year the Toulouse scrum-half has enjoyed, it's a return that carries immense symbolism both as a statement of intent from France, as they look to rebuild after the heartbreak of their 2023 World Cup quarter-final exit on home soil, and for the individual himself - back where he belongs with Les Bleus.
A sensational year of achievements
2024 has been a year that solidified Dupont’s status as a transcendent figure in world rugby. He not only helped the France Sevens team to world titles, but then went on to exorcise the demons of the 2023 World Cup by inspiring the team to Olympic gold at the Stade de France. Garlanded with multiple awards including the Legion d'Honneur, which was presented to him by Emmanuel Macron, Dupont then made his long-awaited returned to Toulouse this month in spectacular fashion. In his first game back, he scored a 13-minute hat-trick against Clermont. At Toulouse, Dupont’s influence has been central to their strong performances in the Top 14. He has consistently delivered match-winning performances in the past - helping them to a domestic and European double last season - while his ability to dictate play, create opportunities from nothing, and score spectacular tries has left rugby fans in awe, e world wondering whether his abilities even have a ceiling any more.
From Messi to Olympic dreams
What sets Dupont apart from many other rugby greats is his appeal beyond the sport itself. This year, he further broadened his global appeal, notably collaborating with football superstar Lionel Messi on a commercial campaign where the Argentine icon presented him with a personalised Inter Miami shirt. His presence alongside one of the greatest athletes of all time underscores his growing stature, turning Dupont into a global sports figure. And all that is before you take into account his front-page fashion magazine covers (the inspiration for a thousand memes) and his luxury brand endorsements. Being a flag-bearer for France at the Olympics in Paris only served to introduce him to a wider audience. However, for now, he looks to be back focusing on the main stage: the 15-a-side game.
A record of excellence in the Guinness Men's Six Nations
Dupont’s stellar track record in the Championship further cements his importance to the French squad. Having won the prestigious Player of the Championship award multiple times, he has been instrumental in guiding France to success in Europe’s premier international rugby tournament. His leadership was a key factor in France’s Grand Slam triumph in 2022, and his ability to perform consistently at the highest level makes him an indispensable asset for Les Bleus. As captain, Dupont has the unique ability to lift the performance of those around him, a skill that has made him one of the most respected figures in the sport. His tactical awareness, combined with his ability to execute under pressure, will be crucial as France take on Japan, New Zealand and Argentina this November - all live on TNT Sports.
The leader returns
Dupont’s return for the Autumn Nations Series carries special significance. His last appearance for the French XV was marred by the bitter World Cup defeat to South Africa, a match in which Dupont and his team were eliminated from the tournament on home soil. Coming back to lead the team a year later signals something of a psychological resurgence. It is a powerful statement of resilience, both for Dupont personally and for French rugby, which is looking to turn the page and reassert itself on the global stage after a troubling summer. How November plays out will set the tone for what is to come in the next phase of France’s rugby journey.
