France clarify Six Nations eligibility of second-row colossus after late concerns

Perpignan lock Posolo Tuilagi is eligible for France’s Six Nations campaign despite reports suggesting otherwise.

The 145kg colossus was believed to be ineligible for Les Bleus as he does not have a French passport, but the French Rugby Federation (FFR) have confirmed that will not prevent him from being selected.

Clarification from the FFR

A statement from the FFR clarified that the previous reports related to a policy that was in place during Bernard Laporte’s presidency.

However, that policy is no longer relevant, and the governing body confirmed that Tuilagi can be selected for France‘s Six Nations campaign.

The statement read: “The French Rugby Federation (FFR) would like to provide clarification regarding the eligibility of Posolo Tuilagi, USAP (Perpignan) player, for the national team, the XV of France.

“Although under the presidency of Bernard Laporte, an orientation was adopted to limit the selection of foreign players, except holders of a French passport, the process of selecting a player remains exclusively dictated by World Rugby rules.

“In accordance with World Rugby Regulation 8, a player is, therefore, eligible to represent a national team if he, his parents or grandparents were born in the country concerned or if he has resided in that country for 60 consecutive months.

“In addition, a player can only represent one nation during his career, except under specific conditions.

“The FFR remains committed to promoting players from training sectors while respecting diversity and supporting inclusion in rugby. Selection decisions are the exclusive responsibility of the coach of the XV of France. If the coach considers that Mr. Tuilagi has the necessary skills to represent France, the absence of a French passport will not be an obstacle to his selection.”

Son of Henry

Posolo Tuilagi is the son of former Samoan international Henry. The 19-year-old has been a breakout for Perpignan in recent seasons and was a star for the France U20s team last year as they went on to claim the World Rugby U20 Championship.

Tuilagi is in line for a potential call-up alongside uncapped Toulouse powerhouse Emmanuel Meafou, who recently qualified to represent France. Meanwhile, fellow Toulouse teammate Thibaud Flament has been ruled out through injury.

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