Parisian Top14 clubs Racing 92 and Stade Français announced they will merge next season, according to L’ÉQUIPE. Racing 92 President Jacky Lorenzetti and Stade Français President Thomas Savare announced that next season, in an agreement that has been approved by the National Rugby League (LNR), the clubs “will form one single entity.” In a joint statement, the clubs said that the move is being made “to better cope with the challenges of performance and education” (L’ÉQUIPE, 3/13). In London, Will Griffee reported the extra place in next season's division will be "filled by either a playoff or offering another promotion spot from the second-tier ProD2." From next season, Stade Français and Racing 92 will "combine their players and staff to form one Parisian super-club." A number of players are "likely to lose their jobs as the squad size will have to be reduced." This means the "likes of Dan Carter and Sergio Parisse can now play on the same side, combining in what is likely to be one of the most star-studded teams in France." The clubs will "pool resources" though fine details, such as a stadium plan and coaching staff, have yet to be finalized in "what is bound to be a turbulent off-season" (DAILY MAIL, 3/13).
'UNPRECEDENTED': The BBC's Chris Jones commented it is an "utterly incredible story." It is "unprecedented and bizarre." These "aren't two small rugby clubs struggling to make needs meet." They "are two powerhouses of the French game." It is the "equivalent of perhaps, in England, Saracens and Harlequins merging or, in a football example, Tottenham and Arsenal merging" (BBC, 3/13). L’ÉQUIPE reported Savare told his players about the planned merger in a "meeting that did not go over well," according to some witnesses. Stade Français player Pascal Papé was "notably distraught." He tweeted, "Today my sadness is so great I'd rather not comment!!" In an "effort to have their voices heard, Stade Français players have spoke of a possible strike." No player from Racing 92 has "expressed anything on social media" (L’ÉQUIPE, 3/13).
FFR REACTS: The French Rugby Federation said that it was shocked to learn of the plans to merge the two clubs. It was also surprised to learn of the creation of a new club without being consulted. FFR President Bernard Laporte said that the organization will follow the dossier with close attention. Laporte was also surprised by the swiftness with which LNR President Paul Goze allowed the move. Laporte will meet with Goze soon to hear his explanation (FFR).
