Bordeaux winger Damian Penaud is navigating a surprising setback as he was excluded from the French XV’s roster for the 2026 Six Nations Tournament, a decision that’s prompted both introspection and a renewed drive to reclaim his place among the nation’s elite rugby players.
When the team list for the 2026 Six Nations was released, Penaud wasn’t included. While not entirely unexpected, the omission marked a turning point for the long-time French international and the team’s all-time leading scorer. He had anticipated the decision, but witnessing the team prepare without him proved difficult.
A Voice for Change
Penaud isn’t a silent figure in French rugby. In recent months, he publicly advocated for an evolution in the national team’s playing style during the fall tour, a bold move that resonated throughout the squad. His relationship with head coach Fabien Galthié had become less fluid following critiques during the 2025 tournament, specifically after a defeat in England.
The absence from the squad weighed heavily on Penaud, particularly leading up to the match against Ireland. Union Bordeaux-Bègles captain Maxime Lucu described the mental impact: “We knew this match was going to be a headache because you want to be on the pitch and wear the jersey and experience those moments. Damian, we know very well everything that was said and everything that happened since he was not caught. He was affected mentally.”
Despite the disappointment, Lucu emphasized Penaud’s positive response: increased effort, dedication, and a clear desire to return to the national team. The coaching staff reportedly provided specific areas for improvement, with Lucu noting, “He knows what he has to work on,” and observing his teammate’s strong performance in training, particularly in aerial play.
Stepping Up at UBB
Penaud is preparing for Saturday’s match against Castres at 2:30 p.m. with Union Bordeaux-Bègles. Paradoxically, this international absence has propelled him into a more central role within the Gironde project. Lucu explained, “We also ask him to be much more of a leader. He had a lot more responsibility for training, for videos, for the weeks to live. We feel that he is also having fun. He is learning to live differently and that will definitely help him.”
Known for his easygoing personality and playful spirit in the locker room, Penaud is embracing newfound leadership responsibilities. UBB left pillar Mathis Perchaud observed, “I think he’s the same Damian. Maybe he has the balls, but he doesn’t necessarily show it. He’s still the same, messy, putting on plays. I think he hasn’t changed at all.”
A Moment for Reflection
The Bordeaux coaching staff views this period as a valuable opportunity for introspection. Defense coach Christophe Laussucq stated, “He always ate caviar. Since he was very young, he was always put on a pedestal. Sometimes, in a career, it’s good to go through moments of a little doubt to question yourself.”
Laussucq believes this setback can be a catalyst for growth, prompting Penaud to refine his habits and daily preparation. “This is the first time, since I have known him, that he has been singled out, a bit of a failure,” he continued, expressing confidence that the French team won’t remain without his contributions for long.
Rebuilding and Remaining True
Balancing the disappointment of not wearing the blue jersey with the determination to bounce back, Penaud is focused on making an impact. He’s been tasked with developing a leadership style that doesn’t come naturally, requiring a different kind of work than he’s accustomed to. Lucu noted, “It requires different work from him than what he could usually do. When there is Matthieu (Jalibert), Yoram (Moefana), Nico (Depoortère), they are the ones who do all the work.” However, he’s maintaining the qualities that define his personality: a lighthearted approach and strong connections with his teammates. Away from the international spotlight, Penaud is rebuilding his game and strengthening the collective spirit within Bordeaux, hoping to once again leave his mark on the history of the XV of France.
