Antoine Dupont is not playing in the Six Nations 2024 as he has chosen to focus on preparing for the rugby sevens tournament at the Olympic Games in Paris, considering it a highly motivating challenge.
Six Nations 2024
The 2024 Six Nations Championship, known as the Guinness Men’s Six Nations, is set to captivate rugby fans from February 2 to March 16, 2024. This prestigious rugby union competition features the national teams of England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales, marking the 130th season overall and the 25th since its evolution into the Six Nations format in 2000.
The championship kicks off with an exciting Friday night clash between France and Ireland on February 2, culminating in a highly anticipated match between France and England on March 16. An interesting twist for this edition is that France will play their home games at alternative venues due to the Stade de France in Saint-Denis undergoing preparations for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Each participating nation has designated a home stadium for their matches, including iconic venues like Twickenham Stadium in London for England, Aviva Stadium in Dublin for Ireland, and Stadio Olimpico in Rome for Italy. With reigning champions Ireland entering the competition as Grand Slam winners in 2023, the Six Nations 2024 promises thrilling encounters and fierce competition as teams vie for supremacy in this revered rugby tournament.
Why is Antoine Dupont Not Playing Six Nations 2024?
Antoine Dupont, the star scrum-half and captain of the French rugby team, will be absent from the 2024 Six Nations, and the reason lies in his pursuit of an Olympic dream. Dupont, also playing for Toulouse in the French Top 14, has chosen to skip the Six Nations to focus on preparing for the rugby sevens tournament at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.
Expressing his fascination for participating in this major sporting event on home soil, Dupont mentioned the discussions between coaching staff regarding this decision. He highlighted the need for adjustments in his playing schedule to accommodate both the traditional 15-a-side game and the fast-paced sevens format.
In November of the preceding year, Dupont, along with Toulouse and the French Rugby Federation, confirmed this strategic move. Despite his absence from the Six Nations, Dupont assured fans that he still harbors ambitions in the 15s format and aims to contribute to Stade Toulousain’s quest for success in the Top 14 playoffs.
This decision showcases Dupont’s versatility and dedication to embracing diverse facets of rugby, from the intensity of traditional matches to the exhilarating sevens style. While France will miss his on-field brilliance and leadership during the Six Nations, Dupont’s choice reflects a calculated move to balance his commitment to both 15s and sevens rugby, adding an Olympic chapter to his illustrious career.
Who is Antoine Dupont?
Antoine Dupont, born on November 15, 1996, is a French rugby sensation known for his excellence on the field. Standing at 1.74 meters and weighing 85 kilograms, Dupont primarily plays as a scrum-half and holds the captaincy for the France national team. His remarkable career includes stints with Top 14 club Toulouse, where he has made 105 appearances and scored 220 points in November 11, 2023.
Dupont’s journey into rugby began in Castelnau-Magnoac, France, playing for Magnoac FC at the age of 4. His talent quickly stood out, leading him to join Auch as a junior player in 2011. Internationally, he has represented France at various levels, including France U20 and the senior national team.
The accolades showered upon Dupont include the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year award in 2021 and three Six Nations Player of the Championships titles, making him one of the most celebrated players in the world. His impressive list of achievements comprises three Top 14 titles, the European Rugby Champions Cup, and the Six Nations Championship, highlighting his significant impact and contribution to the sport of rugby. Antoine Dupont’s prowess, leadership, and accomplishments have solidified his status as one of the greatest rugby players of his generation.
| Full Name | Antoine Dupont |
| Date of Birth | November 15, 1996 |
| Age | 27 |
| Place of Birth | Lannemezan, France |
| Weight | 85 kg |
| University | Paul Sabatier University |
| Position(s) | Scrum-half, Fly-half |
| Current Team | Toulouse |
| Awards | World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year (2021) |
| Six Nations Player of the Championships (3 times) |
Antoine Dupont Height
Antoine Dupont, the accomplished French rugby player, stands at a height of 1.74 meters, which is equivalent to 5 feet 9 inches. Despite his relatively moderate height, Dupont has become a giant in the world of rugby, known for his exceptional skills as a scrum-half and his influential role in leading both Toulouse and the France national team.
His prowess on the field, strategic gameplay, and leadership qualities have contributed to his recognition as one of the world’s premier rugby players. Standing at 1.74 meters tall, Dupont’s agility, speed, and technical abilities have made him a formidable force in the sport.
His achievements include winning major championships like the Top 14 and the Six Nations, earning accolades such as the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in 2021. Despite his stature, Dupont’s impact on the rugby scene transcends his physical dimensions, showcasing that success in the sport is not solely determined by height, but by skill, dedication, and leadership on the field.
Antoine Dupont Career
Antoine Dupont’s rugby journey is a tale of triumph both on and off the field. Starting his club career in 2014 with Castres in the Top 14, he quickly made a name for himself. His move to Stade Toulousain in 2017 marked a significant step in his career. The zenith of Dupont’s club success came in 2019 when, with Toulouse, he clinched the Top 14 title by defeating Clermont Auvergne 24-18 in a thrilling final.
The momentum continued as he led Toulouse to victory in the 2020-2021 European Rugby Champions Cup, securing a 22-17 win against La Rochelle and lifting the trophy as captain. Notably, Toulouse achieved a historic domestic and European double by also winning the Top 14 later that year. In the international arena, Dupont’s star shone brightly.
Beginning with his debut for the French national team in the 2017 Six Nations Championship, he quickly established himself as a key player. His exceptional performance earned him the Player of the Championship title in the 2020 Six Nations, a feat he repeated in 2022. Dupont’s leadership skills were recognized in 2022 when he was named France’s stand-in captain, guiding them to a Grand Slam victory in the Six Nations Championship.
Despite not securing the title in 2023, Dupont claimed his third Player of the Championship trophy, equaling the legendary Brian O’Driscoll’s record. Off the field, Dupont’s academic pursuits are commendable. Graduating in science and completing a master’s degree in sport management, he balanced sports and education with finesse.
His entrepreneurial side surfaced as he, along with his brother, renovated a rural estate, turning it into a venue for celebrations. Commercially, Dupont is a sought-after figure, boasting endorsements with major brands like Adidas and Peugeot. His popularity extends beyond rugby, with appearances in documentaries, charity events, and even featuring on the cover of the video game Rugby 22.
A wax figure at the Musée Grévin in Paris stands testament to his iconic status. Antoine Dupont’s career exemplifies excellence, both as a rugby maestro and a multifaceted individual making waves in various spheres of life.
Why is Antoine Dupont Not Playing Six Nations 2024 – FAQs
- Why is Antoine Dupont not playing in the 2024 Six Nations?
Antoine Dupont is skipping the 2024 Six Nations to focus on preparing for the rugby sevens tournament at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. - When does the 2024 Six Nations Championship take place?
The 2024 Six Nations Championship is scheduled to take place from February 2 to March 16, 2024. - Who are the reigning champions entering the 2024 Six Nations?
Ireland enters the 2024 Six Nations as the reigning champions, having won the Grand Slam in 2023. - What is the interesting twist for France in the 2024 Six Nations?
France will play their home games at alternative venues as the Stade de France is undergoing preparations for the 2024 Summer Olympics. - What are Antoine Dupont’s notable achievements in rugby?
Antoine Dupont has won the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in 2021, three Six Nations Player of the Championships, three Top 14 titles, the European Rugby Champions Cup, and the Six Nations Championship. Visit – NewsPSP | NewsDekha