Antoine Dupont and Brice Dulin Urge Citizens to Vote
In the lead-up to the crucial Top 14 semi-final match between La Rochelle and Toulouse, prominent French rugby stars Antoine Dupont and Brice Dulin have taken a moment to address the importance of participating in the upcoming legislative elections. Both athletes emphasized the significance of exercising the right to vote, highlighting it as a fundamental aspect of democratic society.
The Call to Action
During a pre-match press conference, La Rochelle fullback Brice Dulin stated, "We must take advantage of this right to vote. Nothing more. The only advice to give is to go to the polls." This sentiment was echoed by Antoine Dupont, the scrum half and captain of the XV of France, who added, "We are fortunate to be able to express our opinion by going to the polls. These are values that we must try to bring into society too, in these difficult times that we are currently experiencing."
Rugby Values and Societal Impact
Both Dupont and Dulin underscored how the values of diversity and collective effort in rugby can serve as a model for broader societal behavior. Dupont elaborated, "We have values in rugby, including diversity. Everyone brings, through their difference, added value to the collective. These are values that we must try to bring into society too, in these difficult times that we are currently experiencing."
Broader Support from Sports Personalities
Their calls to vote come in the wake of a broader movement among French sports personalities. A column published on the L'Équipe website, signed by over 60 athletes, coaches, and managers, urged citizens to vote against the far right. Signatories included former athletes Marie-José Pérec and Monique Ewanje-Epée, sailors Isabelle Autissier and François Gabart, and former footballer Vikash Dhorasoo. This collective action highlights the role that sports figures can play in influencing public opinion and promoting democratic values.
- Antoine Dupont's comments were made during a press conference held in Bordeaux, just a day before the semi-final match between Toulouse and La Rochelle. The French rugby star has been vocal about various social issues, including the fight against homophobia, as evidenced by his recent appearance on the cover of 'Têtu' magazine.
- Dupont has also been careful to distance himself from any political exploitation of his image. During the last Rugby World Cup in France, he criticized far-right magazine Valeurs Actuelles for using his image without consent, reinforcing his commitment to positive societal values over divisive political agendas.
