Rugby union in France Six Nations games, as well as France's home internationals, such as those that are played during the latter stages of the year in November. Matches from the Top 14 are broadcast by the premium pay television channel Canal+, which also broadcasts many other rugby union competitions, including the Southern Hemisphere's Rugby Championship, between Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Matches from the Pro D2 are broadcast by Sport+, Eurosport and France 3 for local derbies Rugby union in France Rugby union in France is a popular team sport. Rugby union was first introduced in the early 1870s by British
Free kick (rugby union) Free kick (rugby union) A free kick in rugby union is usually awarded to a team for a technical offence committed by the opposing side. Free kicks are awarded for technical offences such as playing too many players in a line-out or time wasting at a scrum. A free kick is also awarded for making a mark. Once awarded a free kick the team must decide how they wish to play it. There are five options. The team in possession cannot directly score a goal from the free kick itself, nor score a dropped goal until the ball has become