Pascal Ondarts
Pascal Ondarts (Méharin, April 1, 1956) is a French former rugby union player and now a gastronomy entrepreneur. He played as a prop for the French national rugby team, known as Les Bleus, from 1986 to 1991.[1]
Career
Ondarts played his entire career for Biarritz Olympique from 1977 to 1993, during the era when rugby was still an amateur sport.
He also represented the French Barbarians in four matches, all of which they won, including notable victories over the Springboks and World XV teams in the 1990s.
International career
He was first called up to Les Bleus by Jacques Fouroux in November 1986 at the age of 30, making his debut against the All Blacks.
He retired after the 10–19 defeat against England in the 1991 World Cup quarter-finals. In total, he earned 42 caps and scored one try (in November 1987 against Romania).
Rugby World Cup appearances
Fouroux selected him as an undisputed starter for New Zealand 1987, where he played in the final. He faced players like Scotland's Iain Milne, Australia's Andy McIntyre, and New Zealand's John Drake.
| World Cup | Host | Result | Matches | Tries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 Rugby World Cup | New Zealand | Runners-up | 5 | 0 |
| 1991 Rugby World Cup | England | Quarter-finals | 4 | 0 |
Coach Daniel Dubroca kept him as a starter for England 1991, where at age 35, he played all matches. He faced England's Jeff Probyn and, after the French elimination, infamously spat at referee David Bishop.[2]
Playing style
Although primarily a loosehead prop, he could also play as a tighthead. Considered short for his position, he nevertheless stood out for his aggressive play, technical skill, and strength, which allowed him to dominate opponents.
In 2006, British newspaper The Times ranked him among the "ten toughest French rugby players in history".[3]
Honours
- Winner of the Five Nations Championship: 1987, 1988, 1989.