France lock Thibaud Flament will miss the opening Six Nations Test against Ireland in Paris on February 5. The 28-year-old revealed the clash with his wife's ART fertility treatment, which is scheduled for the same week. His wife has endometriosis, making the timing inflexible. Flament was included in Fabien Galthie's 42-man squad earlier this month.

Head coach Galthie had already hinted at Flament's absence for "personal reasons." The player explained the scheduling conflict to *L'Equipe*, noting that the treatment protocol is tied to the menstrual cycle. This decision prioritizes family over the high-profile France vs Ireland fixture, a crucial match for both teams' Six Nations campaigns.

Flament is a key figure for both club and country. He was instrumental in France's 2025 Six Nations title and started for Toulouse in their recent Top 14 championship win. His absence creates a significant gap in the French pack for the tournament opener. Fans will now watch how Galthie reshuffles his forward line without the dynamic lock.