5 Things to Know About New France Call-Up Mathis Ferté
Mathis Ferté has been called up to the French national rugby team by head coach Fabien Galthié to prepare for the upcoming match against England. The 22-year-old RCT winger earns his first senior international selection following a productive club season in which he played 31 matches and logged 2,015 minutes of play.
A breakthrough season at RCT
The call-up follows a high-volume campaign for Ferté at Toulon. According to club head coach Pierre Mignoni, who had previously predicted the young player’s international potential, Ferté became a primary fixture in the squad throughout the season. He was the most utilized player for the team, surpassing teammates Zach Mercer and Lewis Ludlam in total playing time across 24 Top 14 matches and seven Champions Cup appearances.
Did You Know? Before his success on the rugby pitch, Mathis Ferté was an undefeated boxer between the ages of 11 and 14, winning all six of his bouts in Cahors before shifting his focus to rugby.
Versatility as a tactical asset
Ferté’s utility has been a defining characteristic of his career thus far. While primarily utilized as an outside winger, the 22-year-old has demonstrated an ability to play at fullback and scrum-half. During his time at Brive, he also filled in at center. This range of positions draws comparisons to Arthur Retière, another player known for maintaining performance levels while rotating across multiple backline roles.
International experience and future path
While this marks his first senior inclusion, Ferté is already an established figure in the French national system. He was a member of the squad that won the U20 World Championship in South Africa, where he recorded four tries, including two in the final against Ireland. He joins a national group that includes several of his former U20 teammates.
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the absence of Louis Bielle-Biarrey and other Top 14 semi-finalists creates a tactical opening for new faces. Ferté’s ability to cover both the wing and the scrum-half position may provide the staff with valuable flexibility during the training camp.
What happens next
Ferté is scheduled to report to Marcoussis to begin preparations. His immediate goal is to secure a spot in the final match-day squad against England. Given the rotation of the current roster, his performance in training will likely determine if he transitions from a training participant to a debutant on the international stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Mathis Ferté’s first time with the French national team?
No. While it is his first call-up to the senior XV de France squad, he previously represented France at the U20 level, winning a world championship in 2023.
What positions can Mathis Ferté play?
He is highly versatile, with the ability to play at wing, fullback, and scrum-half. He has also previously played at center during his time with Brive.
How much did he play for Toulon this season?
He was the most-used player in the squad, appearing in 31 matches—24 in the Top 14 and 7 in the Champions Cup—for a total of 2,015 minutes.
Do you believe Ferté’s versatility will earn him a starting spot against England?