Search icon

Rugby

04th Mar 2025

Thierry Henry back to haunt Ireland with France rugby visit

Colman Stanley

Handball Henry said hello to Les Bleus.

Thierry Henry paid a visit to the French rugby team this week ahead of their Six Nations clash with Ireland on Saturday (kick-off: 2.15pm).

The game is shaping up to be a title-decider, as Ireland aim to become the first team to win three Six Nations in a row.

The former Arsenal and France ace was seen on the French rugby Instagram page talking to the team and posing for photos with head coach Fabien Galthié and talisman Antoine Dupont.

It is now over 15 years since Henry’s infamous handball against Ireland in their qualification game for the 2010 World Cup.

Henry’s actions in extra time led to William Gallas’ goal at the Stade de France in Paris, which ruined the Boys in Greens’ hopes and dreams.

Henry has since said that he was not proud of his actions – and ultimately referee Martin Hansson and his assistants were the ones to blame – but he will probably forever remain a villain in Irish sport.

The FootballJOE quiz: Were you paying attention? – episode 10