France captain Wendie Renard to miss 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup - 'I can no longer endorse the current system'

Wendie Renard has announced that she will not play for France at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Renard, who is currently captain of the French team, says that she will miss out on the tournament in the summer as she «can no longer endorse the current system.» Ad The Olympique Lyonnais defender has 142 appearances for the national team, and has represented France in two World Cups, two Olympics, and three European Championships. Euro 2022Oberdorf: 'I don't think it gets any better' than a final against England28/07/2022 AT 09:17 “I have defended the blue, white, and red shirt 142 times with passion, respect, commitment and professionalism," said Renard in a statement on social media.

“I love France more than anything else, I am not perfect, far from it, but I can no longer endorse the current system, which is far from the requirements of the highest level. It is a sad day but necessary to preserve my mental health. “It is with a heavy heart that I come to inform you of my decision to step back from the French team.

I will unfortunately not be playing in this World Cup in such conditions. “My face may hide the pain, but my heart is suffering… and I don’t want to suffer anymore. “Thank you for your support and for respecting my decision.” Renard’s last played for France in the most recent international break against both Denmark and Uruguay in the Tournoi de France, scoring against the latter.