Son of former France international Alain Penaud, Damian started his professional career with Clermont when he joined the Academy side in 2014.
A very dangerous player with the ball in hand, Penaud represented the France U20s at the u20 Six Nations and the u20 World Cup in 2015 and 2016.
He became a regular starter for Clermont and helped the side to a victorious Top 14 campaign during the 2016/17 season, scoring a try in the semi-final and started the final.
He was named in the France national squad for the three-match series against South Africa in June 2017.
The centre immediately repaid Guy Noves’ faith in him with a try in that 37-15 in Durban, as he showcased his pace, impressive step, vision to spot a gap and confidence to back himself at the very highest level.
In September 2017, Penaud signed a new deal with Clermont until June 2021 having played 22 times for the club scoring 9 tries.
2020 saw him being named in France's squad for the Six Nations.
Penaud won Try of Round One in the 2021/22 European Champions Cup. He was also a part of the French team who beat New Zealand in the 2021 Autumn Internationals. It was the first time since 2009 that Faance had beaten the All Blacks and the first on home soil since 2000. Penaud scored a crucial 68th minute try.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Penaud has been named in the training squad for France.
ML June 2023
Career
 |
France Right Wing |
2017 - present |
 |
Union Bordeaux Begles Right Wing |
2023 - present |
 |
France U20's Outside Centre |
2015 - 2016 |
 |
Barbarians Right Wing |
2022 - 2022 |
 |
Clermont Auvergne Right Wing |
2016 - 2023 |
