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The French Barbarians are touring North America in 2020. The invitational side will play against Canada in Montreal on July 4 before taking on the US Eagles in New York on July 11. Further details are still to be revealed but Stéphane Hamel of Rugby Québec has confirmed the plans are in place.
Similar to their British counterparts, simply known as the Barbarians, the French Barbarians were formed in 1979 and are traditionally formed of select players from the top French divisions. They were briefly integrated as France’s nominated second senior side but have now returned to their original status as an independent structure.
While the matches will not count as tests, they should provide strong opposition for the North American teams. The Barbarians have faced Canada once before, a 17-7 win at Victoria in 2008. They have never before played the USA.
It will also be an historic occasion for Canada, the first time the senior men’s team will face international competition in Montreal. While a venue has not been publicly confirmed, Stade Saputo has been inspected by Rugby Canada for potential use in the past and the natural grass stadium with near 20,000 capacity could be an ideal location.
Though not specifically in New York, the USA played against Ireland at nearby Red Bull Arena in 2017. Local professional side Rugby United New York played their 2019 season at MCU Park on Coney Island but it is not a suitable venue for international rugby.
