Makarita Baleinadogo, a 23-year-old from Tailevu, has made history as the first Fijian woman selected to represent France at the Women’s Rugby World Cup. This milestone is particularly notable as Baleinadogo is part of the 32-member squad gearing up for the tournament, set to take place in England in 2025.
Initially overlooked for the preliminary 38-player lineup, Baleinadogo’s rise to the final team came after an injury to experienced loosehead prop Ambre Mwayembe opened a spot for her. The versatile backrower plays for Stade Bordelais, a team that recently claimed the Elite 1 Championship, which is the women’s equivalent of the men’s Top 14 league in France.
Baleinadogo is not just a promising athlete; she hails from a rugby lineage as the daughter of former Flying Fijians center Dan Baleinadogo, who also played professionally in France after his time in Fiji. Her impressive track record included representing the under-20 French team earlier this year during the Summer Series in Wales.
As the French team prepares for the World Cup, they will be facing tough competition in Pool D, where they will compete against Italy, South Africa, and Brazil. They kick off their World Cup journey with a match against Italy on August 24 at Sandy Park in Exeter.
This selection reflects the increasing opportunities for players from diverse backgrounds in international rugby, as highlighted by head coach Ioan Cunningham’s recent efforts to evaluate both local and overseas talents. It signifies hope for greater inclusivity in women’s sports, inspiring future generations of female athletes in Fiji and beyond.
Baleinadogo’s participation in such a prestigious event not only showcases her talent but also highlights the growing recognition and support for women’s rugby globally, bringing a positive spotlight to the sport.
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