French Women's Rugby Team Finalizes Squad for 2025 World Cup

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) has officially announced the final 32-player roster for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, set to take place in England from August 22 to September 27, 2025. The women's team, referred to as 'Les Bleues', will look to capitalize on their recent performance, where they finished as runners-up in the 2025 Six Nations tournament, losing by a narrow margin to England.

The squad will be led by dual captains Marine Ménager and Manae Feleu. Notably, Carla Neisen is making her return to the XV team after a hiatus during which she focused on rugby sevens. The team has made some significant selections, with some key absences: Emeline Gros and Clara Joyeux have been omitted from the final selection, alongside Ambre Mwayembe, who will miss the tournament due to a fractured ankle sustained in training.

Among the 32 players, there are three debutantes at the international level: Makarita Baleinadogo, Khoudedia Cissokho, and Marie Morland. Additionally, four players from the ASM Rugby women's team have been selected: Yllana Brosseau, Alexandra Chambon, Assia Khalfaoui, and Lina Tuy, adding depth to the roster.

The tournament will feature matches across eight different locations in England, with France drawn in Group D alongside Italy, South Africa, and Brazil. Their first match is scheduled against Italy on August 23, followed by encounters with Brazil on August 31 and South Africa on September 7.