Spain to replace French Barbarians as Canada’s Senior Men’s 15s opponent at TD Place on July 10

There has been a change in opponent for Canada’s Senior Men’s 15s international test match at TD Place in Ottawa on July 10.

Despite an agreement, the French Barbarians are unable to fulfill the fixture, citing contractual obligations to their players.

Rugby Canada had been looking forward to hosting a match involving a French team in Ottawa due to the strong French-Canadian community in the region.

In the meantime, however, we are delighted to announce that Spain have replaced the Barbarians and will take to the field in Ottawa on Sunday, July 10.

15th-ranked Spain will provide stern opposition and the opportunity for Kingsley Jones’ Men’s 15s side to earn valuable ranking points in what will be the first senior international test match to be played at TD Place.

Their most recent fixtures were against 20th-ranked Portugal, which resulted in a 33-28 victory, and 12th-ranked Georgia, by whom they were beaten 49-15, in March.

”The news regarding the French Barbarians is very disappointing for both our team and our fans,” commented Jamie Levchuk, Interim CEO and Managing Director, Revenue and Fan Engagement, Rugby Canada. “We had an agreement from the French Barbarians that they would be traveling for a two-match tour this July to the USA and Canada. We apologize to those fans that purchased pre-sale tickets and will honour full refunds.

“Having said this, we are very excited to welcome Spain to Ottawa for what will be a full international test match and look forward to welcoming Canadian rugby fans to TD Place on July 10 to support our Senior Men’s 15s team.”

Rugby Canada would like to thank World Rugby for their support in sourcing quality opposition under very difficult circumstances and a tight time frame.

Tickets for Canada’s Men’s 15s fixture against Spain are now on sale and can be purchased here. Pre-sale tickets purchased by fans for the French Barbarians match will be honoured for this new fixture. Contact tickets@rugby.ca for more details.