Why Rugby and France Are a Perfect Match
Posted on
With February around the corner, as every year, comes the promise of an explosive sports season. This year is no different, with the Six Nations tournaments kicking off at the end of January, when the iconic Stade de France in Paris welcomes the opening match, with the exciting prospect of an early classic, France vs Wales.
Ah, le rugby, where grit meets grace, and passion fills the air! In France, rugby is more than a sport; it’s a way of life, deeply embedded in the culture of its cities, especially in the south and southwest of the country. Whether you’re a fan of Rugby Union or Rugby League (le Jeu à 13), this comprehensive guide will take you through some of the most iconic French rugby clubs.
How Does the League System Work in France?
The French Top 14 Rugby League
France’s rugby union league system is multi-tiered, showcasing talent from grassroots clubs to elite professional squads. At the pinnacle stands the Top 14, France’s premier division, where 14 teams battle it for national glory and a coveted spot in European competition. The championship culminates in a grand final that draws massive crowds and electrifies millions of fans across France.
Lower Rugby Leagues
Below this, the Pro D2, featuring 14 teams, serves as the gateway to the topflight, with promotion and relegation fuelling intense rivalries. Further down, the Nationale (third division) and Nationale 2 (fourth division) offer fiercely competitive rugby, while the Fédérale leagues provide a fantastic foundation for the sport across the country.
European Competitions
Beyond national borders, the best French clubs compete in the European Champions Cup and European Challenge Cup, clashing with the finest teams from England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Italy, and South Africa. Powerhouse clubs like Toulouse, La Rochelle, and Toulon have made France a dominant force on the European stage. From packed stadiums to historic rivalries, French club rugby is a spectacle where every season writes a new chapter in the sport’s history.
Rugby Union: France’s 15-a-Side Glory
Stade Toulousain (ST, based in Toulouse)
Stade Toulousain is Europe’s most decorated rugby club, boasting five European Champions Cups and multiple French Top 14 titles. Their style of play is a mesmerising mix of flair and strategy, a true representation of rugby’s beauty. The incredible Antoine Dupont, often hailed as one of the greatest rugby players of his generation, plays for Stade Toulousain, adding to the club’s legendary status. Known as “La Ville Rose” (the Pink City), Toulouse charms with its rosy terracotta buildings, historic squares and the Garonne River. Pair a rugby match with some local cassoulet for the ultimate southern French experience.
ASM Clermont Auvergne (ASM, based in Clermont-Ferrand)
ASM Clermont has a loyal fan base known as the “Yellow Army,” and their home games are electric. The club’s resilience and thrilling matches have made them one of France’s most beloved rugby teams.
RC Toulonnais (RCT, based in Toulon)
Toulon dominated European rugby in the 2010s, with three consecutive European Champions Cups. Known for their physical, powerhouse play, RC Toulonnais hosted legendary players like Jonny Wilkinson. A Mediterranean gem on the Riviera, Toulon boasts sandy beaches, a charming harbour, and the breathtaking Mont Faron cable car ride.
Union Bordeaux Bègles (UBB, based in Bordeaux)
Bordeaux’s rugby culture is rising, and UBB’s exciting, attacking play has captured hearts across France. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Bordeaux offers world-class wine tours and the futuristic Cité du Vin museum.
Section Paloise (SP, based in Pau)
Founded in 1902, Pau’s rugby heritage is long-standing, and Section Paloise has produced many French internationals. The club’s local atmosphere is authentic and welcoming. With views of the Pyrénées and its proximity to Basque Country, Pau is a scenic escape.
AS Béziers Hérault (ASBH, based in Béziers)
Created in 1911, AS Béziers Hérault is a historic club with a rich legacy in French rugby. Known for their passionate fan base and competitive spirit, they are a significant force in rugby, with a school for training and developing promising youngsters. Later in this article, we talk to a former international captain and world champion who’s fallen in love with the region, the city and the club. Situated near the Mediterranean coast, Béziers offers beautiful landscapes, the Canal du Midi and the stunning Béziers Cathedral.
Stade Rochelais (SR, based in La Rochelle)
Stade Rochelais has emerged as a powerhouse in recent years, known for their dynamic play and strong performances in both domestic and European competitions. A coastal city with a rich maritime history in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, La Rochelle features the iconic Old Port and the picturesque Île-de-Ré.
Rugby Club de Courbevoie (RCC, based in Courbevoie)
The Rugby Club de Courbevoie is a well-established club in the Ile-de-France region, known for its competitive spirit and strong youth development program. While not among the top tier of French rugby, the club has enjoyed periods of success, contributing to the development of the sport in the region. RCC is not as famous as the names mentioned above, but we couldn’t finish this list without mentioning a smaller club, especially as we have a young family member who trains and plays here. Allez Louis!
International Rugby: The Legacy of Les Bleus
History and Legacy of the XV de France
The French national rugby union team, Les Bleus, has a long legacy in international rugby. Known for their flair, creativity and unpredictable style of play, the XV de France has produced some of the most memorable and exciting moments in rugby history. The team has competed in every Rugby World Cup since its inception in 1987, reaching the final three times (1987, 1999 and 2011).
Players who Marked their Generation
Over the last 75 years, several French rugby players have left an indelible mark on the sport at club, and international level. Here are some of the most influential and iconic French rugby players we want to pay tribute to and share with you. There are so many, but it’s not been easy, and we realise we may not make every fan happy with our selection. So here we go, in no particular order:
Fabien Pelous
A towering second row, Pelous is the most capped French player in rugby union history with 118 Test match appearances. He spent 12 of his 18-year professional career with Toulouse, winning two European Cup titles in 2003 and 2005 and three French league titles in 1999, 2001, and 2008. Pelous was known for his leadership and physical presence on the field.
Thierry Dusautoir
Known for his exceptional tackling and work rate, Dusautoir was a key member of the French team that reached the Rugby World Cup final in 2011. He won multiple titles with Toulouse, including the European Cup 2010 and several French league championships. His performance against the All Blacks in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where he made 38 tackles, remains a Test record.
Philippe Sella
Regarded as one of the greatest French rugby players of all time, Sella played a crucial role in France’s success during the 1980s and early 1990s. He won three Five Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 1987, and achieved significant success at the club level with Toulouse.
Serge Blanco
Known for his versatility and flair, Blanco spent his entire career at Biarritz, playing for nearly two decades. He was a key figure in France’s attacking play and is often included in all-time World XVs. Blanco’s ability to play multiple positions made him a valuable asset to the French team.
Philippe Saint-André
Saint-André played key roles in huge French victories both as a player and a coach. He played 69 times for France, scoring 152 points, and was known for his leadership and tactical acumen. Saint-André also had a successful coaching career, guiding France as their head coach from 2012 to 2015.
Raphaël Ibañez
Ibañez was a prominent hooker who achieved significant success with France, winning Grand Slam titles in 1998 and 2002. At the club level, he won the European Cup with Wasps in 2007 and the Premiership in 2008. Ibañez was known for his leadership and contributions to the French national team.
Sébastien Chabal
Known for his physicality and aggressive style of play, Chabal was a fan favourite and a key player for France during the 2000s. He won the Six Nations Championship with France in 2007 and succeeded at the club level with Sale Sharks and Racing Métro.
Yannick Jauzion
A talented centre, Jauzion was part of the French team that won the Grand Slam in 2002 and 2004. He was known for his powerful running and defensive skills, making him a formidable opponent on the field.
Antoine Dupont
One of the world’s best players, Dupont captains the French national side and was named World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in 2021. He has been a key figure in France’s recent successes and is known for his dynamic playmaking abilities.
Jean-Pierre Rives
Known as “Casque d’Or” (Golden Helmet), Rives was a legendary flanker who captained France in the 1970s and 1980s. He was renowned for his toughness, leadership, and relentless playing style, earning him a place among the greatest French rugby players ever.
Fabien Galthié
Currently the head coach of the French national rugby team, Galthié had a distinguished playing career as a scrum-half. He earned 64 caps for France and was part of the team that won the Grand Slam in 1998. As a coach, Galthié has led France to notable successes, including winning the Six Nations Championship in 2022.
These players have not only contributed significantly to the success of French rugby but have left a lasting impact on the sport globally.
The Six Nations Tournament
Annual Rugby Spectacle
The Six Nations Championship is an annual rugby union competition involving France, England, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales national teams. It is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious rugby tournaments, offering a thrilling display of international rugby and one of our favourite international tournaments. This year, the men’s Championship starts on January 31st in Paris, and the Women’s Six Nations will begin in spring, on 22nd March, with Ireland hosting France at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast.
France’s Role in the Tournament
France has been a dominant force in the Six Nations, known for their passionate play and competitive spirit. The tournament provides a stage for Les Bleus to showcase their talent and compete against some of the best teams in the world.
Grand Slams and Rivalries
France has achieved several Grand Slams in the Six Nations, winning all their matches in a single tournament. These victories are celebrated as some of the greatest achievements in French rugby.
The tournament features intense rivalries, such as the match between France and England, known as “Le Crunch,” which always promises a high-stakes, thrilling encounter.
Rugby League: The 13-A-Side Passion
While Rugby Union dominates much of France, the Rugby League heartland lies in the southwest, particularly in the Occitanie region.
Rugby league in France, known as “Rugby à XIII,” is characterised by passion, resilience, and a distinctive cultural flair. The sport was introduced in the 1930s as an alternative to rugby union, quickly captivating fans with its fast-paced action and emphasis on teamwork.
Although it faced significant challenges during World War II, when it was banned under the Vichy regime, rugby league persevered and continued to grow, especially in the southern regions like Occitanie and Provence.
Today, France’s rugby league scene is highlighted by teams such as the Catalans Dragons, who compete in the Super League, along with a devoted community of local and international fans. Here’s a small selection of the prominent rugby league clubs in the country.
Catalans Dragons (based in Perpignan)
The pride of French rugby league, the Catalans Dragons compete in the Super League, showcasing elite-level talent and thrilling crowds in Perpignan. Their historic Challenge Cup win 2018 cemented their place among Europe’s best.
Toulouse Olympique (based in Toulouse)
Known for their flair and determination, Toulouse Olympique has made strides in recent years, competing in both the Championship and Super League. Their fast-paced style keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
AS Carcassonne (based in Carcassonne)
A dominant force in the domestic Élite 1 Championship, AS Carcassonne boasts a rich sporting history and a strong local following. They regularly contend for national titles, representing the heart of French rugby league culture.
FC Lézignan XIII (based in Lézignan-Corbières)
A club synonymous with success in the Elite 1 Championship, Lézignan in the Aude department is renowned for its passionate fanbase and ability to nurture homegrown talent.
We Talk With a World-Cup Winner
Rugby reflects the heart of French culture: passionate, vibrant and proud. Each club offers its unique story, and its home cities are brimming with history, gastronomy, adventure and passionate fans and their families. We’ve asked a former rugby international captain and world-cup winner what is so special about “le ballon ovale”, and what draws him to this area of France. Who is Bob Skinstad?
Introducing Bob Skinstad
Bob Skinstad is a former South African rugby union player who captained the Springboks and was known for his dynamic skills as a loose forward. Born in 1976, Skinstad emerged as a key figure in South African rugby during the late 1990s and early 2000s, playing flanker and number eight. Skinstad, recognised for his athleticism and leadership, made his international debut for the Springboks in 1997. He earned 42 caps, scored multiple tries, and played a crucial role in South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup victory.
After retiring from professional rugby, Skinstad transitioned into a successful career as a rugby commentator and businessman. He co-founded a sports management company and has participated in various entrepreneurial ventures. He remains active in the rugby community, particularly in France, where he provides commentary and insights, he works with ASBH (AS Béziers Hérault) and is partner at Elixirr, a UK listed consultancy’.
Ten Questions for a World-Class Player
- Question – You spend a lot of time in Occitanie, what draws you there? Is it rugby, the lifestyle, or something else?
- Answer - Ha – that’s easy, because it’s the area with the people with the passion for rugby, and a beautiful area, that I haven’t spent enough time in (I once did the Canal du Midi and I was hooked!)
- Question - Which is your favourite French club and why?
- Answer - Of course, it’s ASBH Beziers, because I have joined the Rouges et Bleus!
- Question - How does the 6 Nations compare to other tournaments in intensity and style? Do you see France as a strong contender this year?
- Answer - It’s a great tournament, and I love the rivalries. I am watching “Le Crunch” at Twickenham, and I think it will be a huge decider on the outcome of the competition.
- Question - When you think of French rugby, which players immediately come to mind?
- Answer - I grew up watching Serge Blanco, Camberabero, Philippe Sella – so I am a fan of the running game and I love the way the forwards and backs combine in the French rugby style.
- Question - French rugby is known for being unique and even special—what’s your take on this? Do you think it’s more than a myth?
- Answer - Its true, and it’s part of their strength, and it can be used for the positive, I think it is down to the amazing passion and rivalries in the regions and the clubs, with their deep history and love for the game.
- Question - If France were to immortalise an iconic rugby player with a statue, who do you think deserves the honour, and where would it be fittingly placed?
- Answer - Surely now it has to be Dupont now? He has taken the game to another level, and the next World Cup could be his chance to win the World Cup that France has been waiting for!
- Question - What was winning the 2007 World Cup in France like?
- Answer - It is a great privilege and very exciting; I’m proud to stand amongst the winners of the RWC with many other South Africans and proud we have a strong team and that the world sees us as leaders in that type of tournament.
- Question - What advice would you give to young rugby players hoping to make an impact on the international stage?
- Answer - Play hard, find the right team to use your talent the most, support your teammates and be a gentleman off the pitch and an animal on it!
- Question - If you were to retire in France, what region would you choose and why?
- Answer - I would love to live around the beautiful area of Béziers and its surroundings; it’s very much like Cape Town and a few years from now, I would like to live here!
- Question - When eating out post-match in France, what’s your favourite food and wine?
- Answer - I like a good French red from the Languedoc and a lovely Cote de Boeuf!
Merci beaucoup Bob, your insights and feedback are greatly appreciated, we assume you’ll be cheering for Les Bleus this year?
Looking for Property in a Rugby Loving Region?
Discover our collection of properties in most of the rugby-friendly regions of France. Our portfolio includes villas, apartments, country houses, mansions, farm and gîtes, catering to a variety of preferences. Tell us your requirements to receive properties based on your search criteria.
Search, Save and Review
