France

These are desperate times for both teams taking the field at MCU Park on Sunday, each for a different reason. Rugby United New York saw their playoff hopes dip in defeat to Seattle last weekend and need a win to stay alive. Austin Elite, meanwhile, have lost 15 straight and …

Manuel Leindekar will take another step towards a possible starting spot at the World Cup when he runs out for Oyonnax against Bayonne in the first Pro D2 Semi Final on Saturday. The giant Uruguayan lock has enjoyed a breakthrough season with USO, becoming first choice in the second half …

Canadian international Matt Beukeboom has signed a two-year senior contract with French Pro D2 side Montauban. The 22-year-old departs Pau with one year remaining on his academy deal to take up the fully professional offer with an eye to getting first team experience next season. Beukeboom spent three seasons with …

Austin Elite have secured the signature of Spain international David Mélé for the 2020 Major League Rugby season. A native of Narbonne, France, the 33-year-old is set to act as a player-coach with the side, bringing more than a decade’s worth of professional experience in France and England. Mélé will …

A bonus point 24-13 win over Austin Elite on Thursday evening saw the Toronto Arrows jump into third overall with a chance to move up again on Sunday. Glendale, Seattle, and New York are suddenly all behind the Canadian outfit though the latter two have a game at hand. Toronto …

In many past World Cups, France has been a great enigma. The elimination of New Zealand at the hands of Les Bleus in RWCs 1999, and 2007 continue as main features on the highlight reel of World Rugby videos promoting the sport. Among other things that prior World Cups demonstrate …

Rugby United New York have completed the signing of French giant outside center Mathieu Bastareaud. The 30-year-old was linked to a move from Toulon to Major League Rugby (MLR) two weeks ago and now it is official. The 120kg (265lbs) Frenchman confirmed he will be joining New York for the …

The Utah Warriors picked up their long-awaited second win of the season as they defeated Austin Elite 35-19 at Zions Bank Stadium on Saturday evening. Two tries from Tongan winger Fetu’u Vainikolo led the way with Utah’s powerful ball carriers proving too much for Austin to handle. Vainikolo’s first try …

The playoffs are out of reach for both the Utah Warriors and Austin Elite, but there is still plenty to play for in the closing weeks of the season. Pride being one, future employment could well be another. It’s been a frustrating season for both sides and for those in …

Austin Elite have formally confirmed the signing of Simon Bienvenu from French Top 14 club Racing 92. The 23-year-old had agreed to join the club several months ago but visa delays have prevented him from making his Major League Rugby debut. An outside center or wing, Bienvenu is a product …