France secured the 9th berth in the IRL Men’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 in Australia with a dominant 36-0 win over Jamaica.

Focused, inspired and dominant in all areas, backed by a vociferous home crowd, the French team quickly took control of the game and executed with precision.

“It was a very good performance against tough opposition” noted France Head Coach Laurent Frayssinous. “Jamaica through a lot at us but I think we dealt with that very well. Obviously we’re very happy to be qualified for the next World Cup, which is great news for everyone involved in Rugby League in France!”

Enzo Griffier opened France’s scoring eight minutes into the game, with Arthur Mourge converting. Shortly afterwards, Paul Séguier added their second after a well-executed play, initiated by Mourge who also added the conversion.

France were in pole as Fouad Yaha finished out wide, with Mourge’s final pass sending him away, although Mourge was unable to convert, giving France a 16-0 lead at the break.

Les Bleus continued their impressive performance in the second half as Julien Bousquet showed his strength with an early score.

Yaha bagged his second in the corner, with Mourge converted, before Léo Darrelatour celebrated his debut with a try.

Griffier wrapped things up with his second try with three minutes to go assure France of booking their ticket to Australia next year. 

“I’m massive proud of our boys” added Jy-Mel Coleman, Jamaica’s co-coach. “We have a couple of amateur players and some very young players who showed they could hold their own for several periods of the game. Harlen Smith was incredible for an 18-year old playing his first game against men and Jimmy Morgan was outstanding too, but I’m very proud of the whole squad. Congratulations to France and good luck to them in the World Cup.”