France Rugby has paid tribute to Christophe Dominici after the former Les Bleus winger died aged 48.
Dominici made 67 appearances for his country after scoring a try on his debut in the 1998 Championship against England at the Stade de France in Paris.
In total, he appeared 31 times in the Championship while he also played in three Rugby World Cups – scoring a try in France’s semi-final victory over New Zealand in 1999.
A statement from the France Rugby Federation said: “It is with deep sadness that the French Rugby Federation learned of the death of Christophe Dominici.
“The rugby family has lost suddenly today, a legend, an iconic player. The FFR offers its condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Dominici played for his hometown club of Toulon from 1993 to 1997 before moving to Paris to join Stade Francais, where he wrote his name large in French rugby history.
Playing at Stade Francais from 1997 to 2008, he was part of the team that won five French championships and reached two European Champions Cup finals.
His arrival at Stade Francais helped him break into the international team, with the winger going on to score 25 tries in 67 appearances – including seven Championship tries.
And his former club Stade Francais said Dominici was an “incredible talent”.
“It is with immense sadness and deep heartbreak that Stade Francais Paris learns of the death of Christophe Dominici,” a statement from the Top 14 club read.
“During the 11 years spent under our colours, Christophe will have, thanks to his incredible talent and his class, greatly contributed to writing the history of the club.
“An international 67 times, his exploits in the blue jersey will have dazzled thousands of young rugby players and allowed the French team to write some of the most beautiful pages in its history.
“A rugby genius and peerless companion, he leaves a great void in our big family. Our hearts go out to his family, his partner Loretta, his daughters Chiara and Mia.”
