![French rugby players will wear rainbow shoelaces in support of Gareth Thomas [Photo: Stuff.co.nz]](https://www.fijivillage.com/news_images/7566180935bf5a7b24960c7c443804.jpg)
France will wear rainbow laces when they play Fiji in support of Gareth Thomas following his assault.
Former Wales captain Thomas was assaulted by a sixteen‑year‑old in a homophobic attack in Cardiff.
Planet Rugby reports the gesture is part of the Rainbow Laces campaign which began in 2013 when gay rights group Stonewall invited footballers in England and Scotland to wear them.
Former Wales captain Thomas played for Toulouse for three years helping them to Champions Cup glory in 2005 and French Rugby Federation vice‑president Serge Simon paid an emotional tribute to Thomas.
French Rugby Federation vice‑president Serge Simon tweeted: “Dear Gareth Thomas, all French Rugby is with you.”
Dear @gareththomas14,
— Serge Simon (@DrSergeSIMON) November 20, 2018
All of French Rugby is with you regarding the homophobic molestation you’ve been victim of.
To show our support, the French rugby players will wear a rainbow shoe lace during the France – Fidji game on Saturday night.
We’re all in with you in this matter.
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians are working hard on defence and attack ahead of their encounter with France.
France players will wear rainbow laces during their match against Fiji in support of Gareth Thomas, the French Rugby Federation’s vice president Serge Simon said: https://t.co/DmGS5bYWpU pic.twitter.com/VJp6ooTBpf
— FOX SPORTS Rugby (@FOXRUGBY) November 21, 2018
Flying Fijians coach John McKee says that the last two games are now behind them and have been great platforms for their preparations ahead of their final test.
The Flying Fijians have never won a game since their last nine encounters with France.
Creating history will be another focus for the Flying Fijians.
The Flying Fijians will take on France at 9.45am this Sunday.
