Summary
In an inspiring interview, Abdelatif Benazzi, a former French rugby star, announced his candidacy for the presidency of World Rugby, an opportunity to propel France back into the heart of rugby governance. At 56, armed with the wisdom of his 78 international caps and leadership as captain of the XV de France, Benazzi’s ambition is not just personal but a clarion call for a France that must reclaim its influential voice in the global rugby arena. Once the proud second-row of SU Agen from 1989 to 2001, Benazzi now serves as the vice-president of France Rugby, where he is spearheading international initiatives. With the upcoming election scheduled for November, he aims to follow in the footsteps of esteemed predecessors like Albret Ferrasse and Bernard Lapasset, marking a historic return of French leadership to the World Rugby table. “Why me?” he passionately interrogates as he reflects on the past absences at the executive level since Bernard Laporte stepped down. “Decisions shaping the future of rugby are being made without French input. It’s high time we reinsert our perspectives into these discussions, as France has the potential to be a pivotal force in shaping the sport’s evolution globally.” His vision is for France to not merely sit at the table but to be the leading voice, representing a common vision for federations worldwide. He draws upon the recent successes of hosting both the Rugby World Cup and the Olympics in France, underlining how these events showcased the nation’s robust model of rugby — one based on flourishing clubs that many admire. “France commands a staggering 80% of the rugby economy alongside England. It’s essential we engage with these discussions, sharing our admired model and influencing future directions. Competing nations have echoed this need – our return to the helm is not just desired, it’s essential.” Amidst his local commitment to Florian Grill’s foundational work on transparency, responsibility, and ethics in the French Rugby Federation, he is also tirelessly building alliances with fellow nations, particularly in the UK and Ireland. He envisions a modernized governance model at World Rugby, advocating for the inclusion of major federations in decision-making processes that shape the sport’s future, especially in times of economic struggles faced by many. The shadows of financial strain loom large over rugby powerhouses such as Wales and Scotland. “How can we allow these key players to drown in debt while ignoring their voices?” he implores, stressing that financial stability is paramount for fostering a thriving rugby culture that invites innovation and evolvement. Benazzi sees his candidacy as a vessel to push for deeper ties and mutual support among nations, fostering a landscape where all federations can thrive together. A staunch advocate for player welfare, Benazzi shines a spotlight on health and safety within rugby — a priority of his agenda. “World Rugby isn’t merely about generating revenue; it should fundamentally offer support for player health and care. It’s our ethical imperative to safeguard those who play the game.” He further explores the electrifying possibilities of rugby sevens, envisioning it as a universal sport that every child aspires to play, potentially serving as a gateway to the famed XV format. After investing significantly in this format, the Federation aims to ensure this sport not only flourishes but does so on a sustainable return. As he underscores these aspirations, he acknowledges the looming distractions surrounding recent controversies that have clouded the French Rugby Federation’s reputation. However, he notes the overwhelming support from other nations through this turbulent time, appreciating the joint resilience shown collectively to confront societal reflections manifested within the sport. “We must act decisively to eradicate toxic elements in rugby while promoting a culture of inclusivity and respect,” Benazzi affirms, advocating for robust policies against violence and drug abuse launched from recent insights gained through experience. As he passionately closes, Benazzi’s vision resonates: a fervent push for a rugby world where France occupies its rightful place in shaping the future — vibrant, inclusive, and unmistakably central to the sport’s heartbeat.
Original Source: www.ladepeche.fr
