Weekend Sports Recap: Rugby Triumphs and Basketball Dominance
Highlights from a weekend of major French sports results, including rugby and basketball.
Key Points
- • UBB reaches Top 14 final after defeating Toulon 39-24
- • French women's basketball team dominates Switzerland 111-37 in EuroBasket
- • France's youth rugby team wins 26-24 against England
- • Kévin Vauquelin finishes second in Tour de Suisse, wins best young rider's jersey
A thrilling weekend of sports in France culminated in several notable performances across rugby, basketball, and cycling, with significant implications for the upcoming competitions.
In rugby, the Union Bordeaux-Bègles (UBB) clinched a spot in the Top 14 final by defeating Toulon with a score of 39-24. Despite missing key player Louis Bielle-Biarey due to a concussion, UBB showcased resilience and talent, highlighted by Maxime Lamothe's hat-trick. UBB is set to face Stade Toulousain, who advanced after overcoming Bayonne 32-25 in the other semi-final. This final at the Stade de France on June 28 is particularly significant as UBB aims to avenge last year's defeat to Toulouse, seeking their first Bouclier de Brennus after already winning the Champions Cup this season.
Meanwhile, France's youth rugby team staged an inspiring comeback against England at Twickenham, winning 26-24 after trailing 24-12. Their late-game performance, which saw them score two crucial tries, underscores the potential of this new generation of players ahead of their summer tour to New Zealand.
In women's basketball, the French national team delivered a dazzling display against Switzerland in the EuroBasket 2025, winning 111-37. This impressive victory ensures their undefeated run in the group stage, setting up a quarter-final clash against Lithuania. Janelle Salaün emerged as a star performer, contributing 23 points.
In the Betclic Elite finals, Monaco rebounded to defeat Paris 80-74, pushing the series to a decisive Game 5. This comeback followed a challenging start in the series and reflects Monaco's determination to seize control in the final match.
Cyclist Kévin Vauquelin made headlines in the Tour de Suisse, finishing second overall and securing the best young rider's jersey. He held the lead until the final time trial, where he was overtaken by Joao Almeida.
Lastly, the sports community mourns the loss of Denis Lathoud, a former French handball player who passed away at 59 after a battle with cancer. Lathoud was instrumental in France winning their first world title in 1995, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.