2023-06-25 09:38:13
World Rugby said no. The Australian-born second row Emmanuel Meafou will not be eligible to represent France before the end of 2023, and will therefore not be able to participate in the World Cup (September 8-October 28) with the Blues.
A source close to the French Rugby Federation told AFP that World Rugby, the governing body of world rugby, refused to grant an exemption in this file. The FFR had submitted a file because the player did not meet the eligibility criteria for a few months, namely five years of residence in the country.
Arrived in Toulouse in 2018, Meafou (2.03 m, 145 kg) was not part of the list of 42 players summoned earlier this week by Fabien Galthié to prepare for the World Cup. But the coach of the XV of France hoped to be able to add him to his group by the World Cup. He had thus summoned him to Marcoussis in March so that he could familiarize himself with the methods and the environment of the Blues.
Born in New Zealand to Samoan parents, Meafou joined Australia very early, of which he is a national, but has always proclaimed his intention to defend the colors of France, the country which gave him his chance at the highest level. and of which he now holds a passport. He was one of the key players of the Stade Toulousain season, which ended with a Top 14 victory against La Rochelle (29-26).
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