Antonie Dupont steers France to first sevens title in 19 years

Antoine Dupont has made his mark in the sevens rugby as he steered France to their first sevens title in 19 years as they defeated a injury hit Great Britain Sevens side in Los Angeles.

The 27-year-old made a switch to the sevens format in a bid to compete in the Paris Olympics and made his debut in the Vancouver 7s that saw his side finish third before inspiring them to a title win in Los Angeles - their first since 2005.

He will now move to his club Toulouse and return back to the 7s in May which means he will not be available for Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens in April.

"I started this Olympic project to get a medal - obviously a gold," he said.

"I knew the guys were able to do it [on Sunday] and that they can beat anyone when they're at their best".

Antonie Zeghdar scored the game's only try in the opening half as France had a 7-0 lead before further tries from Stephen Parez Edo Martin and Theo Forner ensured they completed a 21-0 victory.

“I’m very proud for the team, for the boys,” France captain Paulin Riva said. “It was very difficult all weekend but we worked hard every time, everywhere and we are very happy.

“I think this is the new standard for France and we will take this memory into the next tournament.”

Earlier, France defeated Ireland 26-24 in the semi-finals while GB edged out Spain 10-7 in the other knock out game.

Meanwhile, New Zealand defeated Australia 29-14 in the final to win the Women's leg with USA beating Canada to finish third.