"It's a big disappointment because they had given their word they would play and one doesn't go back on his word, " added Lievremont.

BBC: France omit Sebastien Chabal & William Servat for tour

Though Bush appeared on television just a handful of hours later to rebuff Gore's entreaties, it would be very difficult for the vice president to go back on his word.

CNN: Gore content to let recounts play out