France declines All Blacks' USA Test request

France have turned down a proposal from New Zealand to play one of their three scheduled Test matches in the United States during the summer of 2025.

French Rugby Federation (FFR) president Florian Grill confirmed the decision, highlighting concerns about player welfare and logistical challenges.

The French Rugby Federation consulted its medical committee before arriving at the decision. Grill explained that the combination of “a double time difference to manage and a double change of season” would pose significant health risks to the players.

“We considered that it could cause injuries, and our priority is the health of the players,” Grill stated.

This comes as France prepares for a three-Test series against the All Blacks, following their thrilling 30-29 victory over New Zealand in Paris last month, marking their third consecutive win against the rugby giants.

The All Blacks have previously played matches in the United States, including a game against Fiji in San Diego last July and a high-profile clash with Ireland in Chicago in 2016. They are scheduled to face Ireland again in Chicago next November.

Grill acknowledged the appeal of expanding rugby's footprint in the U.S., especially with the 2031 Rugby World Cup set to be hosted there.

“We can imagine that it could be interesting for the New Zealanders, and it’s not uninteresting (to us) either. But we can find other opportunities to go to the United States without the logistical and health challenges,” he said.

France’s 2025 tour will already be logistically demanding. The team will be unable to include players participating in the Top 14 Final on June 28, 2025. Additionally, key players may be rested even if they are not involved in the domestic final.

Although the official itinerary has not been released, the Test matches are expected to take place on the weekends of July 5, 12, and 19.