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Antoine Dupont admits Sevens switch a 'little bit scary'
By Ian Cameron
France's celebrated scrum-half Antoine Dupont is gearing up for a remarkable year in 2024, driven by his World Cup disappointment and a hunger for new victories.
The 27-year-old Toulouse star is set to miss the upcoming Six Nations as he prepares to join France's Sevens programme, with his eyes firmly set on the Paris Olympics.
Speaking candidly about his decision with BBC Radio 5 Live, Dupont shared, "I will have a very busy year, but I love that and I am excited. It's very exciting but a little bit scary," reflecting his anticipation for the challenge ahead. This shift to the Sevens format marks a significant departure from his familiar XV-a-side rugby.
Dupont's resolve stems from his recent heartbreak in the Rugby World Cup, where France, despite being the hosts, were ousted by South Africa in the quarter-finals.
"When you lose a competition you want to do another thing to try to win again," Dupont explained to BBC Radio 5 Live.
Dupont played a pivotal role in Toulouse's triumph over Harlequins in the Champions Cup.
"The Champions Cup is always a special competition for us, and I think we saw the last two weeks that we are very motivated for this competition," he added.
The transition to Sevens won't be easy. Dupont last played this format as an under-18 player.
"The last time [playing Sevens] was under-18, I think, but it is the same sport and there are a lot of things similar. I will have to work a lot to be competitive in all the competitions."
Dupont will participate in Sevens series events in February and March before returning to Toulouse towards the season's end. He will then switch back to the Sevens programme in time for the July Olympics. His dedication to mastering both formats is clear. "I have a lot of calls with the coach to try to learn some skills, and I will try to learn by watching the game."
Despite the excitement of the new venture, Dupont admits the difficulty of missing the Six Nations, a staple in the rugby calendar. "Yes, it's hard [to miss the Six Nations], but I have to make choices, unfortunately."
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Latest Comments
Hopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
Go to commentsNot surprised to see Barretts rating. He has always been a solid defender for the ABs but not particularly effective in attack situations.
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