Breaking News: French Rugby Federation’s New Conditions for Hosting Matches
In an exclusive interview with La Dépêche du Midi, Florian Grill, the president of the French Rugby Federation (FFR), has revealed the conditions necessary for organizing French rugby team matches in cities like Toulouse. This comes as recent announcements have designated Lille and Bordeaux to host several meetings of the French rugby teams.
FFR’s Commitment to Grassroots Development
The FFR has shown a strong commitment to promoting rugby across the entire French territory. According to their website, the federation aims to bring the French rugby teams closer to their supporters by hosting matches in various regions. However, Grill emphasized that the capacity of stadiums is a secondary concern compared to the development of grassroots rugby.
“The capacity of the stadium is small for a game of the Blues. But why not the Bleuets, why not women during the Six Nations tournament. We are digging this,” said Grill. The FFR president also detailed the agreement signed with the City of Bordeaux, which includes investments in local club infrastructure and the training of school teachers in rugby.
New Criteria for Match Allocation
Grill announced that the allocation of French team matches will no longer be based solely on stadium capacity. Instead, the FFR will prioritize regions that commit to developing grassroots rugby. “We are completely open to discussing with the metropolises and with the regions, the departments, the stadiums… But that they know that from now on the allocation of matches is not just according to the gauge, it is done according to a development plan for a rugby of the base at the local level,” said Grill.
This new approach aims to foster a symbiotic relationship between professional and amateur rugby. Grill noted that the president of Bordeaux Métropole and the president of Union Bordeaux-Bègles, Laurent Marti, have shown positive involvement in this initiative.
Encouraging Regional Commitment
Grill encouraged regions to support the development of everyday rugby. “If you want French team matches, help us relaunch everyday rugby. And it’s worth for all French teams: the under 18s, the under 20s…” he stated. This forward-thinking strategy ensures that the benefits of hosting major matches are felt at the grassroots level, promoting long-term growth and engagement in the sport.
Future Implications and Expert Insights
Expert William Servat, in an interview with La Dépêche du Midi, highlighted the importance of such initiatives. “A tour in New Zealand, it cannot be refused!” Servat said, emphasizing the global significance of these developments. The FFR’s focus on grassroots development aligns with international trends in sports management, ensuring sustainability and broad-based participation.
The French Rugby Federation’s new conditions for hosting matches mark a significant shift in how rugby is promoted and developed in France. By prioritizing grassroots development, the FFR aims to create a more robust and inclusive rugby ecosystem, ensuring the sport’s longevity and relevance across the country.
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