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The French Barbarians have pulled out of the previously announced match against Canada. Confirmed earlier this month, the invitational side was to be the featured opponent for the Canadians on July 10 in Ottawa. A replacement has already been arranged with Spain now to arrive for a one-off test.
Los Leones are currently ranked 15th in the world, six spots above Canada, but are reeling from their recent disqualification from participation in the 2023 World Cup for fielding an ineligible player in two matches against the Netherlands. The Spanish Federation is currently going through the appeal process.
Canada last played Spain in November 2017, winning 37-27 in Madrid. This will give the Canadians two tests in July with Belgium to arrive in Halifax on July 2.
The Barbarians have cited contractual obligations as the reason for the withdrawal. It’s the second time a proposed match in Canada has fallen through in the past two years, the first cancellation a result of Covid-19. Meanwhile USA Rugby have confirmed that their fixture between the Eagles and French Barbarians in Houston on July 1 remains in place.
