Meet Aaron Grandidier Nkanang, the English-born winger who's grabbed a spot in France's 42-man squad for the 2026 Six Nations, following Damian Penaud's unexpected exclusion. A former Olympic sevens star, Nkanang is set to shine in the XV aside game, seizing the opportunity to escalate his rugby career alongside notable players like Louis Bielle Biarrey.
Nkanang, who showcased his prowess at the 2024 Olympic Games with the France Sevens team, has continued to impress, notably during his tenure at Pau. Despite a recent full-game appearance in their Investec Champions Cup defeat to the Bulls, his try-scoring average of 0.3 per game might not yet rival Penaud's, but his aerial and defensive skills are considered significant strengths over the seasoned French winger.
His journey into professional rugby is unconventional. Originally a basketball enthusiast, Nkanang shifted his focus to rugby at age 16, advancing from county level in Kent to regional teams in London and the South East, and even England Counties. Bypassing the typical academy route, he instead attended university, where his rugby talents caught the eye of a sports agent. This led to opportunities with several French clubs, facilitated by his French mother's nationality, which smoothed his path to playing in France.
"Honestly, I wouldn't want to play for England anymore,"
Nkanang told the BBC. He emphasized his deep connection to France, stating,
"France has given me everything professionally."
His clear choice reflects a strong desire to give back to the nation that has nurtured his rugby career.
With France set to face England on March 14, 2026, it promises to be a monumental day for Nkanang, potentially marking his debut in the highly competitive environment of the Six Nations. As the rugby world watches, this young player's journey from an overlooked talent to a key figure in French rugby underscores his determination and the unconventional path he has embraced in the sport.
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Meet Aaron Grandidier Nkanang, the English-born winger who's grabbed a spot in France's 42-man squad for the 2026 Six Nations, following Damian Penaud's unexpected exclusion. A former Olympic sevens star, Nkanang is set to shine in the XV aside game, seizing the opportunity to escalate his rugby career alongside notable players like Louis Bielle Biarrey.
Nkanang, who showcased his prowess at the 2024 Olympic Games with the France Sevens team, has continued to impress, notably during his tenure at Pau. Despite a recent full-game appearance in their Investec Champions Cup defeat to the Bulls, his try-scoring average of 0.3 per game might not yet rival Penaud's, but his aerial and defensive skills are considered significant strengths over the seasoned French winger.
His journey into professional rugby is unconventional. Originally a basketball enthusiast, Nkanang shifted his focus to rugby at age 16, advancing from county level in Kent to regional teams in London and the South East, and even England Counties. Bypassing the typical academy route, he instead attended university, where his rugby talents caught the eye of a sports agent. This led to opportunities with several French clubs, facilitated by his French mother's nationality, which smoothed his path to playing in France.
"Honestly, I wouldn't want to play for England anymore,"
Nkanang told the BBC. He emphasized his deep connection to France, stating,"France has given me everything professionally."
His clear choice reflects a strong desire to give back to the nation that has nurtured his rugby career.With France set to face England on March 14, 2026, it promises to be a monumental day for Nkanang, potentially marking his debut in the highly competitive environment of the Six Nations. As the rugby world watches, this young player's journey from an overlooked talent to a key figure in French rugby underscores his determination and the unconventional path he has embraced in the sport.