Iconic France XV captain Antoine Dupont, along with his team-mates, is actively campaigning against homophobia in rugby. This position is part of the social program “Celebrating Diversity” jointly launched by the National Rugby League (LNR) and the French Rugby Federation (FFR).
Dupont, who appeared on the cover of Têtu magazine a few weeks ago and appeared on the show “Lesencontres de Papotins”, makes the fight against homophobia a priority and calls for more openness in rugby and sport in general. In a 10-minute documentary titled Our Diversity, Our Strength, he says: “Today it is of course possible to be a rugby player and be gay. » He emphasizes that each athlete should be free to express his or her sexual orientation without fear of judgment. Dupont also promotes educational discourse from a very young age to encourage inclusion in this sport, which is perceived as very masculine. “This is an open environment and sexual orientation is not an issue. »
His teammates share this view. Julien Marchand, also from Stade Toulousain, adds: “As long as we perform well on the pitch, that’s all that matters. » For him, rugby should be a space where everyone can feel comfortable and have their own identity. Cyril Baille, another official of the team, expressed support for his partner, whatever his orientation, assuring that every effort would be made to integrate the gay player and ensure that he does not feel left out.
In an interview with Têtu, Dupont questioned the stereotype of “virility” associated with rugby and referenced Jérémy Clamy-Edroux, the only French player to publicly reveal his homosexuality. “I really doubt there is only one gay person in the stadium,” he says. Dupont emphasizes the importance of awareness in the locker room, where inappropriate jokes can discourage players from coming out. “If a gay athlete hears these little jokes, it won’t help them express themselves. »
Therefore, by making his voice heard off the pitch as well, Antoine Dupont hopes to promote rugby as an acceptance for everyone, regardless of their orientation and background, and contribute to breaking the taboos that still persist in the sport.
