France join Rio qualifiers
France's men's Sevens team will be present at the Rio Olympics next year, after booking their place on Sunday in Exeter, England.
They ensured they qualify to be part of rugby's return to the Games – after nearly a century's absence – by sealing their European crown when they beat Wales to reach the tournament semifinals.
Reaching the last four guaranteed them finishing top of the championship, after winning the Moscow and Lyon legs in June – where several outstanding Top 14 players were deployed, including France international back row forward Fulgence Ouedraogo.
Indeed such has been their dominance of late they have not lost a match in the past three tournaments – reward for the huge investment the French Rugby Federation has made, investing €4.7-million (US$5.2-million) alone this year.
"I am really happy," said France skipper Terry Bouhraoua.
"I am very proud of the team. It has at times been difficult over the past five years, people didn't believe in the French team.
"It is unbelievable."
Agence France-Presse
