France achieves double success at the 3rd CISM Military Rugby Sevens Challenge

BON-ENCONTRE (FRA) – The 3rd CISM Military Rugby Sevens Challenge was successfully held from 27 to 31 May 2026 in Bon-Encontre, near Agen, bringing together military athletes from seven nations for five days of competition, friendship, and sporting excellence.

Military delegations from South Africa, Spain, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, and the United States participated in the event, which once again highlighted the growing importance of rugby sevens within the international military sports movement. More than 150 military athletes competed in front of enthusiastic crowds, creating an exceptional atmosphere throughout the tournament.

The competition officially began with a spectacular Opening Ceremony. The flags of the participating nations were brought into the stadium by parachutists from the French Armed Forces Sports Team before the athletes paraded in front of packed stands. The ceremony reflected the values of CISM and set the tone for several days of intense sporting action and international camaraderie.

Representing the host nation, the French delegation consisted of 24 military athletes, equally divided between men and women and drawn from the French Armed Forces and the National Gendarmerie. Throughout two days of competition, the teams demonstrated a high level of performance, commitment, and sportsmanship as they battled for supremacy in both the men's and women's tournaments.

On the field, France once again proved its strength in military rugby sevens by claiming victory in both competitions. The French men's team secured first place ahead of the Republic of Korea and the United States, while the French women's team finished on top of the standings ahead of the United States and Spain. This impressive double victory confirmed France's leading position in the discipline and delighted the home supporters.

The event concluded with an official Closing Ceremony attended by General Cyrille Becker, Commander of the French Military Sports Academy, Colonel Stanislas Richebé, Commanding Officer of the 48th Signal Regiment, Mrs. Laurence Lamy, Mayor of Bon-Encontre, and Miss Lot-et-Garonne. The ceremony celebrated not only the sporting achievements of the participants but also the spirit of friendship and mutual respect that defines every CISM event.

The successful organization of the 3rd CISM Military Rugby Sevens Challenge once again demonstrated the ability of military sport to bring together armed forces from around the world through competition and shared values. CISM congratulates the French Armed Forces for the excellent organization of the event and extends its appreciation to all participating nations for contributing to another memorable edition of the Military Rugby Sevens Challenge, fully embodying the CISM motto: Friendship through Sport.

(Source: Académie Militaire des Sports de la Défense)