By Guillaume K. | Sports journalist
France is a country that attracts the best Rugby players in the world, which explains the popularity of the Top 14. Scottish international, Blair Kinghorn is currently playing in Toulouse, where he is discovering a fascinating culture. He was honest about his relationship with French rugby.
If those mainly concerned regularly denounce a lack of investment in sport in France, the country still makes a good showing on the international scene… Indeed, in the most popular disciplines, it is clear that the French team is imposes it as a reference. The only problem is that once trained, talents generally go abroad.
In basketball for example, the NBA remains the ultimate dream, so as soon as they can our best young people take the plunge towards America. Everyone knew, for example, that Victor Wembanyama would only have one season with the Metropolitans, which is why the Betclic Elite rooms were full whenever he traveled.
A Scottish international cash on France
Rugby is therefore an exception, since the Top 14 is the number 1 championship in the world. Not only do our internationals stay, but they are also joined by stars from other major European nations. Blair Kinghorn, 53 caps with the XV du Chardon, shines with Stade Toulousain. In the “Rugby Pod”, he explained the big difference between France and his native Scotland:
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The number of players in France is crazy. There is the Top 14, then you have the Pro D2, and many other championships below. And all professional teams have training systems that are effective. The young people in Toulouse sometimes train with us to replace the injured and they are strong. Rugby is such an important sport in this country.
Each city lives for its team. Every week you have people who come to fill the stands, even for youth matches. People come to training to see us every day. It is an important part of the culture. The city of Toulouse loves its team and all the players are well treated. You are recognized in the street, people are happy.
I know it doesn't happen to me that often, but I can imagine for the most famous French people. They're idols as soon as they come out. People are kind and pay attention to us in many aspects. I have yet to see the negative side of this passion. For example, the team is sponsored by Peugeot, so we all have the right to a car.
France is a rugby country, there is no doubt about it. The best players on the planet want to discover the Top 14, and once in France, they are surprised by the oval culture. Blair Kinghorn is clearly enjoying his time in Toulouse.
