Antoine Dupont Champions Diversity and Inclusion in Rugby
Antoine Dupont, the captain of the French rugby team, is leading a significant campaign against homophobia in rugby, titled "Our Diversity, Our Strength." This initiative, launched by the National Rugby League (LNR) and the French Federation (FFR), aims to promote acceptance and inclusivity within the sport. The campaign is part of a broader societal program called "Let's Celebrate Diversity," which has been active since 2020.
In a recent video, Dupont emphasized the possibility of being both a rugby player and gay, stating, "Of course it's possible. After that, it's up to the person to feel how they can tell their partners, even the world of rugby in general, so that it's as accepted as possible." He highlighted the importance of education and open discussions about sexual orientation, particularly for young players and within professional circles.
Dupont's sentiments are echoed by his teammates, Julien Marchand and Cyril Baille, who advocate for normalizing discussions around sexuality in rugby. Marchand remarked, "It doesn't matter what you think, what you do off the pitch. Today, people need to be more comfortable with it." Baille added his support, stating that he would do everything to integrate a gay teammate and ensure they feel included.
The campaign's video will be showcased in stadiums during the TOP 14 matches and during the French national team's autumn tour, which includes games against Japan, New Zealand, and Argentina. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in rugby, aiming to reinforce the sport's core values of respect and inclusivity.
