Morocco’s Abdelatif Benazzi enters World Rugby Hall of Fame

Former Morocco international Abdelatif Benazzi has been named to the prestigious World Rugby Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class, becoming the 182nd member of rugby union’s global pantheon, French media report.

World Rugby announced on Wednesday the induction of five new rugby legends, including Benazzi, who will join South Africa’s Joel Stransky and New Zealand’s Zinzan Brooke, both already honored in August. The other new inductees are American Jen Crawford, England’s Sue Day, New Zealand’s Rochelle Martin, and Italy-Argentina fly-half Diego Dominguez.

Born in Oujda, Benazzi, now 58, won 78 caps for France between 1990 and 2001, playing in the second row and back row. He also featured in three Rugby World Cups—in 1991, 1995, and 1999—and captained Les Bleus on 15 occasions.

An emblematic figure in French rugby and at SU Agen, where he played for 12 seasons, Benazzi notably stood out during France’s historic victory over New Zealand at Eden Park in 1994, taking part in the move that led to Jean-Luc Sadourny’s famous “try from the end of the world.”

His international career began with the Moroccan national team before he went on to represent France. After retiring as a player, Benazzi remained deeply involved in the game. He currently serves as vice-president of the French Rugby Federation (FFR) and as a member of the World Rugby Council.

The ceremony marking his official induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame is scheduled for November 17, during the World Rugby Council dinner in Dublin.