If the key to launching a new festival is getting the right headline act, then having rugby’s biggest star on board is quite the coup. In the aftermath of French World Cup disappointment came confirmation of Antoine Dupont’s long-rumoured move from the 15-a-side game into sevens – probably the best men’s player on the planet sacrificing this year’s Six Nations to chase Olympic glory in Paris.
His arrival could not be more timely for a flagging format in need of reinvigoration. Les Bleus already sorely miss their magician, falling to Ireland before surviving late drama against Scotland to secure victory in an underwhelming start to their Six Nations campaign.
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