Exclusive
Thierry Futeu: 'The policeman chased me, I pretended to throw a stone at his head and ran for the border'
The Cameroon-born Spain prop has the most arresting back story of robbery, refugee camps and a quest for citizenship.
Francisco Isaac A trained historian by day, Francisco covers the Rugby Europe Championship for Rugby Europe, Rugby World Magazine, Planet Rugby, and Talking Rugby Union. He works closely with the emerging European nations, providing stories from countries such as Portugal, Romania, Georgia and Spain.
Analysis
How agents have helped emerging nations talent triumph
Rugby agents have opened doors and fuelled big moves for talented athletes from diverse and less heralded international background…
Analysis
The ProD2: Rugby's land of opportunity
The French second tier provides a vital platform for emerging nations talent to flourish.
Interview
Passion, abuse and anxiety - the life of a 'Tier Two' referee
Top officials from Georgia and Portugal lift the lid on their eventful career paths.
Analysis
Rugby Europe's finals day promises to be spectacle to remember
Houdinis and clairvoyants converge on the city of love as the Rugby Europe Championship culminates in style.
Analysis
Portugal v Spain: History and controversy collide in rivalry for the ages
Clashes between the Iberian brothers always produce a rich and resonant backdrop.
Exclusive
Can Romania awake from deep and disheartening slumber?
The Oaks have fallen a long way from the glory days of the 1980s, and face an uncertain future.
Exclusive
A French club's 'Moneyball' approach to scouting Tier Two talent
Aurillac is going all-in on emerging nations youngsters - and their plan is working.
Opinion
What next for Portugal?
Portugal stole hearts and made history at the Rugby World Cup, but their future is shrouded in doubt.
