French Federation to be part of national delegation to Australia

The Federation Francaise de Rugby a XIII will be part of a national delegation visiting Australia in 2015.

Representatives of the game’s governing body in France, including FFRXIII president Carlos Zalduendo, will accompany French president Francois Holland.

“This is an unexpected and welcome surprise and an important gesture,” said former French rugby league star player and now broadcaster Louis Bonnery.

“Rugby league is a major part of the culture and economy of Australia and the chance for our sport to be recognised in this way, at the highest level in France, should not be underestimated.

“Ours too is a long and distinguished history and, just as the Kangaroos are great ambassadors for their country, so are the Treizistes.”

The visit will take place on the 18 and 19th November, and will tour Sydney and Canberra.

This marks an important milestone for French rugby league, which has suffered some terrible treatment over the years.

The Nazi-collaborating Vichy government in France in World War Two banned the 13-man game, expropriating its resources and giving them to rugby union.