1968 FRANCE GRAND CHELEM (Grand Slam). THE STORY FROM FRANCE CAPTAIN CHRISTIAN CARRÈRE

1968 France Grand Chelem. Nine years after its first victory Five Nations Tournament victory. The France team of 1968 wrote themselves in the history books. By becoming the first team to win the Grand Slam.

Controversial and Tragic

The build-up to the tournament was and both controversial and also tragic. The Camberabero brothers, Guy and Lilian were recalled to the squad at the last minute. And the double death of French internationals Guy Boniface and Jean-Michel Capendeguy involved in a car accident.

Focussed preparation for England game

“We won two games, including the unbelievable game against Scotland,”. Remembers Christian Carrère, the captain of the legendary XV. “We played a friendly match against the South-East team, in Grenoble, for the opening of the Olympics. But, we didn’t take it seriously and we lost it. So half the team was replaced before the England game at Twickenham. And it was necessary to focus and ensure we had a good state of mind. In a very short period of time, with players with little experience, we began to play well’.

Wales the final hurdle for 1968 France Grand Chelem

He continued “After a tricky victory against England. We went to Wales. This was the final hurdle to overcome to achieve a Grand Slam”. Carrère said: “A week before the match, we regrouped 50 km from the stadium, in a private place. We isolated the team from any distractions. And as a result our preparation was perfect“.
At the end of an epic match against Wales. Christian Carrère’s teams finally defeated the stubborn Welsh Their brave and expansive style of play allowed them to clinch a historic victory: “We played in a mud bath and our studs became stuck in the heavy footing. I’ve no doubt this match would be postponed today. I personally scored a bizarre try. Another by Lilian Camberabero. Along with a penalty, conversion and drop goal from Guy Camberabero”.

Celebrations lasted for three days in Paris

Commenting on the celebrations. Carrère said “We did not immediately realise what an amazing achievement this first-ever Grand Slam was. On the other hand, we all remember the party we had to celebrate. This went on for three days, back in Paris!”.
The above comments from 1968 France Grand Chelem Captain Christian Carrère. Were written in the book ‘Histoire des Grand Chelems de L’équipe de France de Rugby’ by Arnaud Briand.

Vintage France Maillot (Shirt) celebrating the Grand Chelem (Grand Slam)

Also, we offer the famous France Rugby Shirt 1968 Grand Slam in Ecru. Inspired by the final clinching game against Wales. And also worn against Ireland. Also, we offer the classic Vintage France Rugby Shirt Maillot de Rugby France. Or, Retro France Rugby Shirt Polo Maillot de Rugby France.