Dupont and Ntamack Make Triumphant Return to French Rugby Starting XV Against Fiji
Coach Fabien Galthié confirms the return of star duo Dupont and Ntamack to the French rugby starting lineup for the first time in 20 months ahead of the match against Fiji in Lyon.
Key details
- Dupont and Ntamack return to French starting XV after 20 months away due to injuries.
- Match against Fiji is scheduled for Saturday at 21:10 in Lyon.
- Coach Galthié praises their experience and club partnership at Stade Toulousain.
- Their return is a strategic move ahead of three key matches before end of 2026.
On November 5, 2026, French rugby coach Fabien Galthié confirmed the starting XV for the upcoming match against Fiji, notably reinstating the pivotal half-back pairing of Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack. This marks their first joint appearance in the starting lineup since March 2025, ending a 20-month absence caused by injuries. The match is scheduled for Saturday at 21:10 in Lyon, as part of the fourth round of the championship of nations.
Galthié highlighted the significance of this reunited duo, calling them "two top players of the French team who have won a lot since 2020." He emphasized that Dupont and Ntamack’s ongoing partnership at Stade Toulousain benefits both the club and the national team. Despite limited recent appearances together, the coach stressed their valuable collective experience with the French team, noting that Ntamack has been involved in summer training even when not taking part in prior tournaments.
This announcement represents a strategic boost for the French team as they head into three important matches before the close of 2026. The reintegration of these key players is expected to enhance the team's dynamics and performance.
The day’s announcement follows a period of tough decisions for French sports managers, with parallel challenges in national football under Zinédine Zidane’s new tenure, marked by injuries to key players. However, for rugby fans, the return of Dupont and Ntamack offers a moment of anticipation and renewed hope for the French XV de France lineup.
