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How the rugby world reacted to the tragic death of Christophe Dominici
By Liam Heagney
The world of rugby has united in paying tribute to Christophe Dominici, the France great who passed away on Tuesday in Paris at the age of 48. French media reports stated that he had climbed on to the roof of an abandoned park building before jumping and falling to his death.
The winner of 67 caps between 1998 and 2007, Dominici was one of the try-scoring France stars who shocked the world when Les Bleus knocked out the All Blacks at the semi-final stage of the 1999 World Cup, while he was also present when the French eliminated New Zealand eight years later in the quarter-finals.
In a sport where professionalism increasingly put a premium on bigger, heavier players, Dominici’s Test career defied logic as he was only 5ft 8ins and weighed 82kgs. However, he played for France for more than nine years and scored 25 tries.
His reputation as a much loved, stylish player prompted a huge outpouring of sorrow on social media after news of his untimely passing emerged. World Rugby tweeted: "A legend of @FranceRugby and an all-time great of the game. Rest In Peace, Christophe Dominici."
The All Blacks also paid their respects: "Small in stature but a titan on the field, Christophe Dominici we will never forget you. Rest In peace, dear friend."
Dan Carter, the All Blacks out-half at that 2007 World Cup where New Zealand were beaten by the French in Cardiff, added: "The epitome of French flair. RIP Dominici."
Dominici first emerged on the scene in France at Toulon but it was at the multi trophy-winning Stade Francais where his reputation as a stylish finisher was sealed. He was recently involved in an attempt by a group of Middle East investors to take over Pro D2 club Beziers, a project that was ultimately unsuccessful.
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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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