Serge Betsen
Gérard Rancinan
A few months before the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France, L’Équipe magazine entrusted Gérard Rancinan with creating a series of portraits of the national team players. Intended to be published on the morning of the opening match, this extensive portfolio highlights twelve of the most emblematic players.
Richard Escot, a senior reporter and rugby specialist for the magazine, plays a crucial role in this project. In addition to writing the texts, he acts as the true Grand Organizer. Thanks to his privileged relationships with the players, he convinces them to dedicate the necessary time for the photo session, explaining Gérard Rancinan’s vision and the project’s ambition. He also takes care of scheduling the appointments.
Several trips to the south of France are necessary, notably to the Basque Country, where Biarritz Olympique hosts a significant number of international players. Five of them participate in the series: Dimitri Yachvili (who unfortunately cannot play in the World Cup), Imanol Harinordoquy, Damien Traille, Jérôme Thion, and Serge Betsen.
The iconic image of this series, created by Gérard Rancinan in March 2007 at the Aguilera Stadium, home of Biarritz Olympique, captures the essence and determination of the players. Rancinan, with his talent and expertise, succeeds in immortalizing these precious moments, transforming each portrait into a unique work of art.