Baleinadogo named in France's World Cup squad
Baleinadogo was part of the Les Liones du Stade Bordelais who defended the Elite 1 title for the third time this year.
Monday 04 August 2025 | 05:00
France-based and Elite 1 champions flanker Makarita Baleinadogo has been named on the France women's squad for the Women's World Cup in England later this month.
The 23-year-old is the first Fijian woman to have been named on a French national side.
The Burelevu, Tailevu lass is one of three uncapped players named by head coach David Ortiz.
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Baleinadogo was not in the original squad but has been called up after Ambre Mwayembe was ruled out after suffering a broken ankle during Thursday's training session.
Speaking to AFP, Ortiz said: "She (Baleinadogo) is a player who we have been following for a while now.
"Even though she has not been with us in the training camp, her profile interested us."
Baleinadogo was part of the Les Liones du Stade Bordelais who defended the Elite 1 title for the third time this year.
She is the daughter of former Flying Fijians centre Dan Baleinadogo.
Meanwhile, France is in Pool D with Italy; Brazil and South Africa.
The World Cup is being hosted by England and runs from August 22 to September 27.
