France‘s Six Nations preparations have been dealt a devastating blow after Uini Atonio was forced to retire with immediate effect following a heart attack.
The 35-year-old prop, one of the cornerstones of France’s recent dominance, was named in Fabien Galthié’s initial Six Nations squad earlier this month but was withdrawn on Monday after suffering what his club La Rochelle described as a “cardiac event”.
Atonio is now in a stable condition but remains in intensive care and faces a lengthy period of recovery, bringing an abrupt end to a distinguished international career.
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Atonio’s absence strips France of one of the most powerful and reliable tightheads in world rugby just days before the defence of their Six Nations title begins against Ireland in Paris on February 5.
With 68 caps, two Championship titles and a central role in the 2022 Grand Slam, Atonio has been a defining figure in France’s pack.
Impact
His loss leaves Galthié facing an immediate headache in the front row, an area where France’s authority has been a major weapon against fellow title contenders Ireland and England.
While replacements have been called up, none bring the same combination of size, consistency and big-match pedigree.
Beyond the tactical impact, Atonio’s retirement is a significant emotional blow.
A leader by example, he was integral to France’s Six Nations triumph last year and remains one of the most respected figures in the squad.
As France look to retain their crown, they must now do so without one of the pillars of their recent success.
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