Few Anglophone rugby writers have such an intimate (and painful) knowledge of French rugby as Gavin Mortimer. Having been gouged, butted and stamped during two seasons as a player in the deep south of the country, Gavin now prefers the more sedate pastime of writing about the state of the game in France. Over the years he’s interviewed the likes of Bernard Laporte, Frederic Michalak and Antoine Dupont, and he also provides co-commentary for Canal Plus’s English language coverage of the Top 14.
The debut 30 years ago of Jonah Lomu, who revolutionised rugby, was overshadowed by one of the all-time great tries by France.
The devastation took hold at the final whistle but when the pain recedes, France have a young squad and will throw everything at A…
Little historical enmity exists between Les Bleus and the Springboks, but that won't dampen a phenomenal Rugby World Cup quarter-f…
The injury to the talismanic French captain has distracted France from another absence they’ve experienced: meaningful oppositio…
Os Lobos have impressed with their ambitious play during the tournament and their development must continue
The world's best player faces a race against time to play a part in the World Cup but France have to hold their nerve
While England are panned by the critics, France have dialled down their adventurous instincts and their fans have backed them
The renaissance of rugby in France has been a long-time coming and Bernard Laporte deserves credit for his vision
A doubt for the World Cup opener against the All Blacks, the powerful La Rochelle centre has been key cog in the French revolution
Fabien Galthie has the backing of a country and despite the injury of Romain Ntamack, confidence remains high as the World Cup app…
Émilien Gailleton is not a household name yet, but if the 20-year-old is parachuted into the French World Cup squad, he soon coul…
Food, wine and rugby are inextricably linked in France and it is now de rigeur to swap the oval ball for a career in gastronomy
The French President is under much pressure domestically and he is hoping that a French World Cup win give him an election fillip
Little old Oyonnax have secured promotion to the riches of the Top 14 and Englishman Joe El-Abd is their inspiration
The Top 14 towers over the URC which is why a double is a far more meaningful feat in France
England backrow star Jack Willis has swapped crestfallen Wasps for European royalty in Toulouse and he is loving his new life in F…
Relaxing the laws on English players playing in France may actually benefit the national team rather than hinder it
The significance of Les Bleus's thunderous victory over England at Twickenham cannot be emphasised enough with a World Cup just mo…
Anglo-French rivalry has lacked a little rancour since a certain English superstar seduced the heart of French rugby
Ireland’s emphatic win in Dublin has exposed the Bleus’ deficiencies and opened up insecurities in the host nation
