What a potential Club World Cup for rugby should look like
If reports in recent days and weeks are to be believed, rugby could be on the brink of creating a revolutionary, and long-awaited,…
Opinion
Alex McLeod
15 Oct 2021, 0:54
News
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Top 14 News
Browse all of the latest Top 14 news stories here at RugbyPass. From player injuries and squad updates to play-by-play match coverage and post-match analysis, you’ll find all of the latest coverage on this page. Scroll down to read the latest expert insights, interviews and more from our rugby gurus.
'It wasn't the way I wanted to move on but it just had to be...'
15 months after quitting Leicester, Telusa Veainu tells RugbyPass about is life in Paris, his reflections on Tigers and his hopes …
Interview
Liam Heagney
03 Oct 2021, 4:47
If it ain't broke, don't fix it
Rugby is on a sticky wicket if the World 12s want to emulate cricket’s IPL
Owain Jones
01 Oct 2021, 6:11
Pieterse ban for 'high danger' flying hit not as bad as first feared
Social media consensus was for Castres forward Ryno Pieterse to face a hefty ban for his red card but some will now feel he got of…
Liam Heagney
29 Sep 2021, 15:19
Four examples of the 50:22 in action from the Prem, URC and Top14
The new 50:22 Law variation which is now on global trial across all of rugby union's major leagues is starting to be deployed by p…
Ian Cameron
27 Sep 2021, 9:20
Ref Watch: 'Forget procedure, Ryno Pieterse left Romain Poite with no option'
Since Castre’s Ryno Pieterse left Bordeaux scrum-half Maxime Lucu in a crumpled heap there has been plenty of debate about the r…
Opinion
Paul Smith
20 Sep 2021, 13:36
Mohamed Haouas burglary trial is postponed again
The much-delayed robbery trial of French international prop Mohamed Haouas has today been postponed for a third time.
Paul Smith
20 Sep 2021, 7:28
Zach Mercer in France: 'There are some absolute mutants out here'
Former Bath No.8 Zach Mercer says he's eager to prove himself in the land of giants that is the Top 14, having tested in the water…
Ian Cameron
19 Sep 2021, 13:26
Ronan O'Gara not worried despite rocky start to La Rochelle reign
Ronan O'Gara says he isn't worried despite a far from ideal start to his reign as head coach at La Rochelle.
Ian Cameron
19 Sep 2021, 7:26
'Reckless, career threatening' - Red card for enormous flying hit in France
Castres forward Ryno Pieterse received a straight red card on Saturday and faces a lengthy ban for a huge flying hit on a Bordeaux…
Ian Cameron
18 Sep 2021, 13:02
Watch: Aussie-on-aussie fire as Skelton gets red for belting compatriot
Former Wallaby Will Skelton has been red-carded in La Rochelle's opening Top 14 clash against Toulouse in a re-match of both the E…
Sam Smith
06 Sep 2021, 18:53
England's Lions pair linked with French Top 14 moves
Midi Olympique today suggests that two England internationals who were also prominent members of the recent British & Irish Lions …
Paul Smith
06 Sep 2021, 8:36
Watch: Ngani Laumape's Top 14 debut for Stade Francais
The 28-year-old second five took up a three-year deal with the Paris club due to an 'underwhelming' offer from NZR to retain him, …
Sam Smith
05 Sep 2021, 17:47
ProD2 club Provence issue statement after player's on-field racist slur
Provence Rugby in the ProD2 have said they will take action against one of their players after it revealed that he racially abused…
Ian Cameron
05 Sep 2021, 12:26
Watch: Former All Black centre lays out French flyhalf Matthieu Jalibert
Former All Black and Blues midfielder Francis Saili has opened the Top 14 season in bruising style, delivering a crunching cover t…
Sam Smith
04 Sep 2021, 20:44
Dreads out: Teddy Thomas has unveiled a radical new look at Racing
Aside from his try-scoring prowess for France and Racing, Teddy Thomas had become well known for his deadlocked hairstyle - but no…
Liam Heagney
03 Sep 2021, 10:36
Mathieu Bastareaud facing another lengthy spell on Lyon sidelines
Mathieu Bastareaud played his first match in eight months last Friday but he now faces another injured spell on the Lyon sidelines…
Liam Heagney
02 Sep 2021, 7:16
What ex-Toulon star Vermeulen has made of their Cheslin Kolbe coup
The rugby world was shaken last Friday by Toulon signing Cheslin Kolbe, a spectacular transfer Duane Vermeulen has now reacted to.…
Liam Heagney
01 Sep 2021, 14:18
South Africans abroad | Premiership vs Japan vs Top 14 XVs
The victorious Lions series and Rugby World Cup heroics in Japan have made the Springboks the poster boys for utilising overseas t…
Ian Cameron
29 Aug 2021, 8:38
Toulouse statement: Cheslin Kolbe
Toulouse have bid a fond farewell to star winger Cheslin Kolbe, who it has been confirmed is leaving the club.
Ian Cameron
27 Aug 2021, 6:40
Confirmed: Toulon complete deal for Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe
What started as a rumour on Monday night has now been made official: Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe has joined Toulon from Toulou…
Liam Heagney
27 Aug 2021, 6:29
The €1million annual salary Cheslin Kolbe will earn at Toulon
Cheslin Kolbe is set to earn a jackpot seven-figure annual salary when he signs for Toulon from French rivals Toulouse.
Liam Heagney
27 Aug 2021, 4:11
Fit-again Bastareaud poised for first match since December injury
It has been eight months since veteran French star Mathieu Bastareaud was last seen in action for Lyon after he joined them from t…
Sam Smith
26 Aug 2021, 11:02
Rival French club confirm 'contact' in signing Kolbe from Toulouse
Cheslin Kolbe is under contract at Toulouse until 2023 but French rivals Toulon have made contact about signing the Springboks win…
Liam Heagney
25 Aug 2021, 4:45
O'Gara's La Rochelle pick up Samoan hooker on short-term deal
Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle have signed former London Irish hooker Motu Matu'u on a short-term deal.
Ian Cameron
13 Aug 2021, 12:39
Fiji's major France-honed advantage over the All Blacks
Analysis: The All Blacks were absolutely demolished at the breakdown in their first test with Fiji.
LONG READ
Nick Bishop
14 Jul 2021, 19:12
Ex-England prospect Ibitoye left on shelf and facing season in ProD2
Barring a late call, former Harlequins flyer Gabriel Ibitoye could end up playing in France’s ProD2 next season for Agen, the cl…
James Harrington
12 Jul 2021, 14:00
Montpellier sign rising Italian flyhalf star Paolo Garbisi
In a blow for Italian club rugby and a coup for Philippe Saint-André, Montpellier have signed rising star Paolo Garbisi.
Ian Cameron
10 Jul 2021, 6:35
Biarritz sign array of stars, including Cubelli, Kuridrani, Dixon
An Argentine scrum-half, a Wallabies centre, an All Blacks back-rower and an Irish prop head a stellar cast signed by Biarritz for…
Liam Heagney
09 Jul 2021, 6:02
'Francois Steyn eat your heart out': Cheslin Kolbe's fires warning shot to Lions with incredible drop goal in Top 14 final
With seemingly nothing on, Dupont pivoted 180 degrees to link with Kolbe back in the pocket, who slammed the goal only inches insi…
Sam Smith
25 Jun 2021, 20:12
Big Will Skelton remains the Wallabies' one that got away
Despite interest from Australia, Will Skelton has signed a mammoth contract to remain in France.
LONG READ
Christy Doran
25 Jun 2021, 19:03
Card confusion reigns supreme across global game
Conflicting messages over high tackles and head knocks in both hemispheres remain game’s reliable constant.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
21 Jun 2021, 20:10
Disturbing scenes as Toulouse star Romain Ntamack stretchered off after sickening tackle and fall
There were immediate concerns for Ntamack's safety after a sickening fall that occurred after being knocked out during a rush tack…
Sam Smith
20 Jun 2021, 3:22
'We need it': Blues chief executive reveals plans for global club competition are underway
Blues chief executive Andrew Hore has revealed plans to create a Champions League-style global club competition are underway.
Sam Smith
18 Jun 2021, 21:09
Jerome Kaino's final bow
Four years on from his departure from New Zealand, Jerome Kaino is enjoying his final days as a player.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
17 Jun 2021, 19:42
'Dodged a bullet': Julian Savea hits back at Toulon fan following club president's cryptic comments
Former All Blacks star Julian Savea has hit back at suggestions linking him to cryptic comments made by Toulon president Bernard L…
Sam Smith
15 Jun 2021, 1:19
Video: Steffon Armitage wins Biarritz Top 14 promotion with sudden death shootout kick
Steffon Armitage dramatically decided the Basque derby, his shootout winner getting Biarritz promoted at the expense of rivals Bay…
Liam Heagney
12 Jun 2021, 16:06
'I offer something in the midfield that no other midfielder can offer': Ngani Laumape parting shot hits the mark ahead of farewell match
Ahead of Ngani Laumape's final home game with the Hurricanes, the All Blacks midfielder was exceptionally candid when speaking to …
Tom Vinicombe
08 Jun 2021, 21:41
Ex-All Black Rudi Wulf drops down three divisions to extend his career in France
Rudi Wulf was set to retire at the end of the current Top 14 season but the Toulon veteran will instead drop down three divisions.…
Sam Smith
05 Jun 2021, 9:55
Pau courting Wallaby and have designs on Springbok's return - reports
Pau have set their sights on signing Wallabies young gun Jack Maddocks, according to La République des Pyrénées.
Ian Cameron
03 Jun 2021, 9:48
Agen's season from hell: Airport fights, walks outs and conceding 42 points a game
Relegated Top 14 outfit Agen are in disarray having lost every game they have played this season and conceded more than 1,000 poin…
James Harrington
01 Jun 2021, 6:59
Struggling Agen sign Glasgow Warriors flanker Lokotui
Embattled Top 14 outfit Agen have confirmed the signing of Glasgow Warriors back row Fotu Lokotui on a two-year deal.
Ian Cameron
31 May 2021, 13:59
REPORT: International referee to quit whistle and coach Montpellier instead
International referee Alexandre Ruiz is to quit refereeing the game to turn his hand to coaching, report Midi Olympique.
Ian Cameron
31 May 2021, 7:06
Scare for Springboks as Cheslin Kolbe forced from the field after seven minutes of play against Clermont
The Springboks camp were delivered a scare in Toulouse's Top 14 clash against Clermont when star wing Cheslin Kolbe limped from th…
Sam Smith
29 May 2021, 23:49
Watch: The Wilkinson-like performance from Toulon's young French flyhalf that could put him on the Australian tour
The 22-year-old Carbonel has won two under-20 World Championships and displaced the highly-rated Anthony Belleau as the starter at…
Sam Smith
29 May 2021, 21:36
Josua Tuisova makes shock positional change for arch-experimenters Lyon
After successfully transforming Mathieu Bastareaud into a No8 in recent years, Lyon are hoping to have the same success with power…
Josh Raisey
28 May 2021, 7:58
Gay dating app the new sponsor of Biarritz
Biarritz Olympique have revealed that famous gay dating app Grindr is to be the new jersey sponsor for the ProD2 team in the 2021/…
Sam Smith
27 May 2021, 8:06
'I don't think they should go ahead': Sir John Kirwan reveals concerns over upcoming All Blacks tests
All Blacks great Sir John Kirwan has revealed he has deep concerns about New Zealand's upcoming test matches against Tonga and Fij…
Alex McLeod
25 May 2021, 0:59
'He ripped into me, Lopeti and Uini': The moment Ronan O'Gara made sure Will Skelton and co knew who is boss at La Rochelle
It didn't take long for ex-Wallabies forward Will Skelton to find out the hard way that Ronan O'Gara means business at La Rochelle…
PA
20 May 2021, 4:47
'The main difference between here and the Premiership is that the physicality of the ball-carrying in France is way, way higher'
Nearing the end of his year loan at Montpellier, Alex Lozowski compares what he has found in Top 14 with what he knows from the Pr…
PA
19 May 2021, 13:07
Ambitious ProD2 side Aix-en-Provence sign former France lock and a Wallaby
ProD2 side Aix-en-Provence have shown their ambition this week by signing a former France second row and a one-time Wallaby.
Ian Cameron
15 May 2021, 8:57
Report: All Blacks great Ma'a Nonu set for Major League Rugby return in surprise new role
Former All Blacks star Ma'a Nonu is reportedly set to return to the United States in a move that will see him take up a surprise n…
Sam Smith
13 May 2021, 22:31
Stade Francais sign Ngani Laumape
Stade Francais have confirmed thec capture of All Black centre Ngani Laumape. The signing of the powerful midfielder is a major co…
Sam Smith
10 May 2021, 8:21
Former Saracens prop extends French stay until 2023
Former England U20s and Saracens prop Hayden Thompson-Stringer has extended his stay in France until 2023.
Ian Cameron
09 May 2021, 10:18
All Blacks hooker extends stay in France to 2023
Former All Blacks hooker Hikawera 'Hika' Elliot has chosen to extend his stay in France, signing a new deal with French club Colom…
Sam Smith
03 May 2021, 7:05
Former All Blacks lock set for return to New Zealand after signing with Hurricanes
Former All Blacks lock Dominic Bird will return to New Zealand from France next year after signing a deal with the Hurricanes for …
Alex McLeod
02 May 2021, 22:24
Pulling power
The Crusaders have surprised the rugby world by making perhaps their highest profile signing ever.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
01 May 2021, 18:55
Wasps lock Levi Douglas joins Toulon despite Launchbury's ACL injury
Wasps lost Joe Launchbury to an ACL last Sunday but that hasn't prevented them from allowing Levi Douglas to link up with French c…
Liam Heagney
01 May 2021, 4:25
'Doesn't seem very fair': Pablo Matera's impending move to the Crusaders has split the fanbase
While new Crusaders signing Pablo Matera is one of the top players in the world, not everyone is happy that the Super Rugby champi…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 20:08
Pablo Matera to make Super Rugby return with champion Crusaders
In a somewhat surprise announcement on Friday afternoon, the Crusaders have confirmed that Argentina captain Pablo Matera has sign…
Tom Vinicombe
29 Apr 2021, 23:56
Cruel injury blow looks to have brought Yoann Huget's career to a premature end
The 33-year-old Toulouse winger suffered an Achilles injury during the club's 34-16 win over Racing 92 on Saturday.
Ciarán Kennedy
26 Apr 2021, 12:03
Another Top14 game has been called off at the last minute
This weekend's Top 14 match between Bordeaux Begles and Montpellier has become the latest fixture to fall victim to the pandemic.
Sam Smith
24 Apr 2021, 11:17
Gael Fickou set for mid-season Racing 92 debut
France centre Gael Fickou is poised to make his Racing 92 debut after transferring to the club from Parisian rivals Stade Francis.…
Ian Cameron
24 Apr 2021, 6:44
Gibbes gets Clermont job while O'Gara earns promotion at La Rochelle
Kiwi Jono Gibbes and Irishman Ronan O'Gara will end their successful coaching partnership at double chasing La Rochelle this summe…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 5:18
Which sides would make a 12-team European rugby union Super League?
The sporting headlines this weekend have been dominated by a highly controversial bid to launch a twelve-team European Super Leagu…
Josh Raisey
19 Apr 2021, 13:02
Jordan Taufua decides his immediate playing future and it will be in France
Former Leicester Tigers' back row Jordan Taufua will be remaining in France after extending his stay with Lyon in the Top 14.
Sam Smith
18 Apr 2021, 5:39
Agen relegated to ProD2 and on track for worst season in league's history
Agen were officially relegated from the Top 14 on Friday night, despite six games remaining until the season has run its course.
Ian Cameron
17 Apr 2021, 8:18
Parisse lines up Toulon extension but the outlook is reportedly different for ex-All Blacks duo Nonu and Toeava
Toulon had placed great fate in Sergio Parisse, Ma’a Nonu and Isaia Toeava - three veteran 30-somethings - for the 2020/21 Top 1…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 5:01
Stade's Gael Fickou to join Racing early but that isn't the reason for this weekend's Parisian derby postponement
Gael Fickou wasn't due to link up with Racing until the 2021/22 season but his move will be accelerated despite the postponed week…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 11:26
Kurtley Beale's top five fly-halves
Racing 92 fullback Kurtley Beale has urged British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland to pick teammate Finn Russell at flyhalf a…
Josh Raisey
15 Apr 2021, 11:03
Former All Blacks playmaker Lima Sopoaga confirms move to Top 14 club Lyon
Former All Blacks playmaker Lima Sopoaga will leave Premiership club Wasps to join Top 14 outfit Lyon at the end of the season, th…
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 18:51
A six-day turnaround in knockout rugby is absolutely criminal - Andy Goode
The French sides are dominant in Europe this season but the fact that Sale are having to cross the Channel on a six-day turnaround…
Andy Goode
10 Apr 2021, 3:28
'It's not nice to see your name on that list' - Alex Lozowski's nightmare start to French adventure has come full circle
England’s Alex Lozowski started this year being named in a list of the worst signings in the Top 14, but is now battling with Ly…
Chris Jones
09 Apr 2021, 5:01
'Shut up. I don't give a f***!': The latest fiasco in the French Pro D2 League shows just how little referees are respected there
The Pro D2 league in France can throw up some fairly humourous moments, but this week's incident shows an increasing trend towards…
Online Editors
04 Apr 2021, 1:02
Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe has gone viral over post-match act of humility but not all fans are pleased
Springboks star and World Cup hero Cheslin Kolbe has gone viral after Toulouse's Champions Cup win over Munster, but not for his u…
Sam Smith
03 Apr 2021, 22:12
Report claims Laumape in line for Top 14 move from Hurricanes while ex-All Blacks lock Bird is set to quit Racing
Reports have emerged in France that All Blacks midfielder Ngani Laumape is touted for a Top 14 move but it's the reverse for Domin…
Liam Heagney
02 Apr 2021, 6:27
Russell receives 3-week ban after red card against France
The Scotland and Racing out-half appeared before a disciplinary hearing via video conference this evening.
Ciarán Kennedy
29 Mar 2021, 14:49
Ronan O'Gara uses Munster connection to sign up versatile back from former club
Sweetnam, who can play at fullback or on the wing, has represented Munster 92 times and scored 22 tries since making his debut in …
Sam Smith
29 Mar 2021, 8:47
Russell handed early disciplinary hearing following France red card
The out-half was sent off during Scotland's defeat of France after catching Brice Dulin near the throat area with his elbow.
Ciarán Kennedy
29 Mar 2021, 6:24
Watch: Fijian international Josua Tuisova tortures his old teammates at Toulon with vengeful performance
Having lost the talent of Tuisova, the reality of the transfer came back to haunt Toulon this weekend as the 27-year-old Fijian st…
Sam Smith
28 Mar 2021, 17:03
'When I first arrived at Sarries I had broken my arm and I was 156, 157kgs... my playing weight is about 140'
Will Skelton was a casualty of Saracens' salary cap drama but life at La Rochelle is sweet and he is maintaining his good habits f…
Liam Heagney
28 Mar 2021, 7:24
Watch: Ma'a Nonu red-carded in Top 14 after decking Lyon halfback with strike to the head in bizarre reaction
Ex-All Black Ma'a Nonu's return stint with French club Toulon has helped the club's resurgence in 2021 after a horror slide down t…
Online Editors
27 Mar 2021, 21:45
'I thought it was a p***-take... five clubs were looking for a lock, one was Toulon. I just told him: get me there'
Andy Cramond fetched up on the Cote d’Azur a bundle of nerves, convinced that the most storied club in Europe had made some terr…
Jamie Lyall
25 Mar 2021, 14:18
Confirmed: France star Gael Fickou is leaving Stade Francais to join Top14 rivals
The 26-year-old has been capped 61 times by France since making his debut in 2013.
Sam Smith
22 Mar 2021, 6:18
Cockerill on 4-man shortlist for Clermont top job
Edinburgh’s Richard Cockerill is on a four-strong shortlist of candidates to become the next Clermont head coach.
Jamie Lyall
18 Mar 2021, 13:23
Racing reportedly poised to sign a Radradra-like NRL try-scoring machine
Semi Radradra was an NRL star at the Eels before successfully moving to union and French club Racing now hope to do the same with …
Sam Smith
13 Mar 2021, 8:28
Wallabies star opens up on his 'hard decision' to leave Australia to replace Springboks great in French Top 14
Starting French language lessons have made it tough for Brandon Paenga-Amosa not to focus on his impending Australian rugby depar…
AAP
09 Mar 2021, 18:07
Watch: Cheslin Kolbe pulls off a Houdini-like escape act in the Top 14 that would be disavowed in South Africa
Springbok World Cup hero Cheslin Kolbe has defied conventional play with a Houdini-like escape act in Toulouse's win over rival Br…
Sam Smith
07 Mar 2021, 2:18
Gael Fickou's potential signing by Racing could be followed by Simon Zebo re-joining Munster
Transfer rumours are heating up in France, the latest being Gael Fickou leaving Stade to join Racing who could lose Simon Zebo to …
Liam Heagney
05 Mar 2021, 6:22
Top 14 wins jackpot with new €113.6million per year TV rights deal
French rugby has enjoyed a fantastic victory in the latest tender for Top 14 live TV rights, securing a 17 per cent increase on cu…
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2021, 16:15
Fijian Josua Tuisova 'did a Bastareaud' at the weekend for Lyon
Lyon have form for converting mifdielders into No8s and they gave Josua Tuisova a temporary go in the role last weekend against To…
Josh Raisey
23 Feb 2021, 14:10
Top League chairman and other leading rugby bosses throw support behind Club World Cup concept
Top League chairman Osamu Ota has joined other leading rugby bosses in throwing support behind the concept of a Club World Cup.
Sam Smith
19 Feb 2021, 23:39
Report: Teddy Thomas faces significant pay cut if he signs for Toulouse
Where Racing winger Teddy Thomas will play his club rugby next season is to be decided and there are complications about a move to…
Sam Smith
19 Feb 2021, 4:53
REPORT: Teddy Thomas set to sign with Toulouse
After being told he would not be needed at Racing 92 past this season, French wing star Teddy Thomas has been linked with one of t…
Ian Cameron
15 Feb 2021, 13:20
REPORT: French media claim Sopoaga's Wasps exit a done deal
The New Zealander has recently been linked with a move away from Wasps, who he joined in 2018.
Sam Smith
15 Feb 2021, 11:59
'I'm under no illusions, I'm not the same player I was at Clermont'
Clermont legend Nick Abendanon thought his career was over ten months ago but a Pro D2 adventure at Vannes has rekindled his love …
Liam Heagney
14 Feb 2021, 4:38
LNR ban Pablo Matera over technicality
The LNR have banned Argentinian captain Pablo Matera over a technicality relating to the amount of yellow cards he has picked up t…
Sam Smith
04 Feb 2021, 8:13
Report: Louis Picamoles to join Bordeaux Begles
Veteran French No.8 Louis Picamoles will leave Montpellier at the end of the season to link up with high-flying Bordeaux Begles, i…
Ian Cameron
01 Feb 2021, 9:41
Reports in France claim Teddy Thomas is on his way out of Racing
Thomas began his professional career at Biarritz before making the move to Racing in 2012.
Online Editors
01 Feb 2021, 8:12
Watch: Biarritz snatch dramatic victory with chaotic last-gasp try after opposition fail to kick ball out twice
Biarritz have scored one of rugby's most dramatic last-gasp tries in chaotic sequence of play that included a cross kick, two offl…
Online Editors
29 Jan 2021, 0:53
Lyon raid Leicester to sign Jordan Taufua as medical joker for injured Mathieu Bastareaud
One-time All Blacks prospect Jordan Taufua struggled to get in the Leicester side this season and he has now left to join Lyon in …
Liam Heagney
27 Jan 2021, 11:09
'I'm extremely keen': Kurtley Beale outlines World Cup ambitions as he eyes Wallabies comeback
Kurtley Beale has outlined his ambition to return to the Australian national set-up under Dave Rennie as he eyes a place at the 20…
Online Editors
25 Jan 2021, 23:21
Former Chiefs wing Bryce Heem quits Toulon to return to New Zealand
Former Chiefs wing Bryce Heem has ended his time with French giants Toulon and returned to New Zealand due to “major family reas…
Online Editors
25 Jan 2021, 17:25
The 6 foot 8 flyhalf who went from Loughborough's 5ths to the engine room of Toulouse
For two hours at a time, twice a day, Thibaud Flament sits inside the hyperbaric chamber in a Toulouse hospital, oxygen mask strap…
Jamie Lyall
24 Jan 2021, 3:26
Alldritt's shock omission from the French squad explained
France star Gregory Alldritt has explained the circumstances that saw him removed from the national squad earlier this week.
Ian Cameron
23 Jan 2021, 5:16
Super League club responds to rumours that Israel Folau is set for a return to union
Catalans Dragons have shot down reports that dual-code Australian international Israel Folau has turned his back on the club and c…
PA
20 Jan 2021, 22:41
Sam Johnson signs Glasgow extension, Huw Jones linked with Top 14 switch
Glasgow have reached a deal for Sam Johnson to extend his Scotstoun contract, but Huw Jones is now reportedly getting interest fro…
Online Editors
19 Jan 2021, 9:15
Toulouse sign Pumas midfielder on 10-month deal to help tide them over in Ntamack's absence
Toulouse have turned to Argentina midfielder Juan Cruz Mallia after a double jaw fracture left Romain Ntamack requiring surgery re…
Online Editors
19 Jan 2021, 8:47
Springboks star Eben Etzebeth pinpointed as top performer in Toulon's win over Racing 92
Eben Etzebeth has earned praise from Toulon head coach Patrice Collazo for his role in their side's 29-23 victory over Racing 92 o…
Online Editors
18 Jan 2021, 1:40
Watch: Virimi Vakatawa's in-goal howler costs Racing 92 in thrilling Top 14 encounter with Toulon
The blunder occurred as Vakatawa casually jogged into the in-goal, failing to put the ball down quickly as Toulon winger Gabin Vil…
Online Editors
17 Jan 2021, 21:28
'When I was skinny as a rake, I wasn't very filled out so everyone would want a fight with you if you were in a nightclub'
It's 7 years since giant-like Dominic Bird was last capped by the All Blacks but he is now performing to the peak of his powers at…
Liam Heagney
17 Jan 2021, 4:32
Report: Montpellier targetting ex-Wallabies coach Michael Cheika as number one option for head coaching role
The Australian has been long favoured by Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad, who reportedly has approached Cheika again about taking o…
Online Editors
16 Jan 2021, 20:34
Gabriel Ibitoye, who has gone from Harlequins to Agen and now on to Montpellier, voted Top 14's biggest 2020/21 new signing flop
Gabrial Ibitoye was hailed as a huge Top 14 signing when Agen recruited him last summer from Harlequins, but the switch hasn't wor…
Online Editors
15 Jan 2021, 7:02
'It's not a good look for those clubs because they are kind of endorsing his beliefs by saying come play with us'
Media speculation linking Israel Folau to a rugby union return with Toulon in the Top 14 has horrified Simon Zebo, Racing 92's Iri…
Liam Heagney
14 Jan 2021, 14:21
'It was unbearable. I was scared... I was afraid I'd lose my job' - Fijian player who lifted ProD2 ref breaks silence
The player who hosted a referee into the air at the end of a ProD2 match in France has broken in silence in an interview with Midi…
Ian Cameron
14 Jan 2021, 12:27
PRO14 and Top 14 confirm revised fixtures list following European postponements
With blank weekends to fill after the suspension of their European fixtures, PRO14 and Top 14 have moved quickly to fill the void.…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 9:36
Reports in France claim Brookes signed by Toulon, du Preez also on their radar
Toulon have reportedly signed Wasps prop Kieran Brookes, who has spent a decade playing in the Premiership for 4 different clubs. …
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 7:27
Agen president has pop at Ibitoye amid transfer speculation
Gabriel Ibitoye only signed for Agen last July but it's now speculated he is on the move from the club facing Top 14 relegation af…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 5:10
Watch: Argentinian enforcer Marcos Kremer's hot-headed moment sparks 30-man pile-on in fiery Top 14 clash
Returning to action in the Top 14 for Stade Francais, Kremer is earning a reputation as one of rugby's biggest agitators after spa…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 16:43
Israel Folau linked with return to rugby union
Controversial cross-code athlete Israel Folau has been linked - albeit tenuously - with a move back to rugby union.
Ian Cameron
11 Jan 2021, 15:03
Watch: French halfback Antoine Dupont shows why he's the world's best with stunning tap-on try assist
His skill was once again on display as he miraculously tapped on a bouncing ball in the backfield after a clearing kick from Thoma…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 1:10
Bath's young star ends England chances by signing for French club Montpellier at 23-years-old
Bath Rugby's young back rower Zach Mercer has signed with French club Montpellier for next season according to a report by the Dai…
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 23:00
'It's intolerable': Player sent off for lifting referee by waist as part of victory celebration in Pro D2
Bizarre scenes played out in France's second-tier Pro D2 on Friday when a player was red carded for celebrating his side's win by …
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 0:09
French clubs to learn European fate on Saturday after crunch talks
Decisions on continued participation in the Heineken Champions and Challenge Cups could have implications for the Six Nations.
PA
08 Jan 2021, 14:45
The game of the Top 14 weekend between 1st and 3rd has been called off
A statement by league leaders La Rochelle has put the brakes on their Top 14 match which was scheduled to take place this Saturday…
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 4:39
Lyon confirm Puma Patricio Fernandez is leaving the club for long-term ProD2 deal
Lyon have confirmed that sometime Los Pumas flyhalf Patricio Fernández has left the club for Perpignan in the ProD2.
Ian Cameron
07 Jan 2021, 6:54
Club tug of war over one of rugby highest paid players
The return of Johan Goosen to South Africa seems to be locked in, but whether the Cheetahs or the Bulls win the heart of the forme…
Ian Cameron
04 Jan 2021, 7:29
Bayonne refuse to play Leicester and Zebre in Challenge Cup
Bayonne had their Top 14 fixture against Castres on December 26 postponed following a number of positive tests.
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 4:54
Montpellier sack Xavier Garbajosa mid-season, appoint former French boss Philippe Saint-Andre
Montpellier have parted ways with head coach Xavier Garbajosa and appointed former French head coach Philippe Saint André as his …
Ian Cameron
03 Jan 2021, 11:46
Bastareaud's message from hospital following surgery on his season-ending knee injury
New signing Mathieu Bastareaud had featured in all 10 of the Top 14 games at Lyon this season but his season is now over after ser…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 9:08
ProD2 club swoop for Puma backrow Rodrigo Bruni
Backrow Rodrigo Bruni has become the latest Argentinian star to pick up a contract in Europe, with ProD2 side Vannes confirming th…
Ian Cameron
31 Dec 2020, 9:43
No10 now the best paid position in the Premiership and Top 14, but it remains tough love for those at hooker
The Esportif Intelligence comparison of rugby player salaries in England, France and PRO14 is a talking point at this time every y…
Liam Heagney
29 Dec 2020, 11:25
Lyon's Bastareaud suffers season-ending knee injury
The 32-year-old was forced off 15 minutes into Lyon's 12-8 Top 14 defeat to Brive on Sunday.
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 12:19
Ntamack's Six Nations in doubt after fly-half suffers horror jaw injury
France are due to begin their Six Nations campaign in just under six weeks time when they take on Italy in Rome (February 6).
Ciarán Kennedy
28 Dec 2020, 9:42
Pablo Matera to make Stade Francais return
Argentinian captain Pablo Matera is set to make his Stade Francais return off the bench against Pau in the Top 14 today.
Ian Cameron
27 Dec 2020, 4:41
Where Scott Robertson's coaching future lies: 'There's going to be a point where I'm just going to say 'Thanks' and go another direction'
When Scott Robertson called time on his playing career in New Zealand, the maverick loose forward headed offshore in search of new…
Online Editors
22 Dec 2020, 17:30
From boy to man
James O'Connor was once the enfant terrible of Australian rugby. Now he's the Wallabies' saviour.
LONG READ
Ben Kimber
21 Dec 2020, 15:35
Report: Montpellier to sign Wallaby Paenga-Amosa to fill Springbok void
Midi Olympique report that MHR have agreed terms with Wallaby hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa and that the Australian will join the cl…
Ian Cameron
21 Dec 2020, 10:23
'So much anger in this guy' - Eben Etzebeth losing his cool with his Toulon teammate has surprised even South African fans
Vision of Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth getting into an altercation with his Toulon teammate while warming up before a Top 14 game …
Online Editors
15 Dec 2020, 18:43
Scotland No.8 Josh Strauss returns to Europe as a medical joker
Josh Strauss has returned to European rugby, with the former Scotland No.8 signing on as medical joker at Oyonnax.
Online Editors
11 Dec 2020, 8:53
Report: Super Rugby's best set to take on elite European clubs in proposed club world championship
Top clubs and franchises from the northern and southern hemispheres could be in line to square off against one another in a world …
Online Editors
10 Dec 2020, 19:17
Pau effectively sack their head coaches mid-season
Pau have become the second French club to sack their head coaches mid-season in as many months after a string of losses in the Top…
Ian Cameron
10 Dec 2020, 4:38
'Having played the game for a few years doesn't make you a good coach' - Brock James on resharpening Ospreys' attacking talons
The former Clermont out-half is looking forward to his latest coaching challenge having signed a three-year deal in Swansea.
Jamie Lyall
09 Dec 2020, 12:47
Kiwis in Europe: The New Zealand trio suffering a tough start to the new PRO14 season
Glasgow’s Kiwi contingent of TJ Ioane, Aki Seiuli and Fotu Lokotui have endured a tough start to the PRO14 with the Warriors.
Campbell Burnes
23 Nov 2020, 19:14
Video - Nonu and Parisse forced to restrain teammate after he puts hands on refereee
Ma'a Nonu and Sergio Parisse were forced to restrain a Toulon teammate after his remonstrations with the referee saw him place his…
Ian Cameron
23 Nov 2020, 7:14
Top 14 boss openly admits interest in Zach Mercer
Bath flanker Zach Mercer is the latest player on the margins on the England set-up who is turning heads in France.
Ian Cameron
15 Nov 2020, 10:32
Reports: Bath and Lyon linked with England playmaker, Wasps linked with ex-Chiefs star
Bath Rugby have reportedly set their sights on Harlequins standoff and England prospect Marcus Smith - at least according to repor…
Ian Cameron
15 Nov 2020, 6:09
'Absolute lunatic' - The anecdote that perfectly sums up Yoann Huget's unique approach to opponents
Last week former French international Yoann Huget announced that he was hanging up his boots after a storied career in the game.
Ian Cameron
13 Nov 2020, 8:55
'He doesn't look like he could lift 5kg but he's so, so strong. He's a natural freak'
He may not look like the stereotypical beefed up rugby player, but Scotland flyhalf Finn Russell is strong. Really strong.
Ian Cameron
08 Nov 2020, 2:06
Trevor Brennan's 130kg son Daniel has signed for Brive
Trevor Brennan and Jeremy Davidson shared the field six times with Ireland in 1999 - now Davidson has taken son Daniel Brennan to …
Online Editors
03 Nov 2020, 6:55
'The group has no respect' - Agen sack coaches mid-season after humiliating, landslide loss
Agen Rugby have sacked their coaching ticket after they shipped a massive loss away to Bordeaux Begles.
Ian Cameron
01 Nov 2020, 14:03
Ma'a Nonu has arrived in France for second coming at Toulon
It was September 26 when Ma'a Nonu was revealed to have signed for Toulon and the All Blacks World Cup winner has now arrived at t…
Josh Raisey
30 Oct 2020, 10:35
'You have to give him the ball because every time he touches it, he is dangerous'
Kotaro Matsushima was injured on his Top 14 debut but the Japan star's third appearance last Saturday showed what he can do for Cl…
Online Editors
27 Oct 2020, 6:09
French prop faces court over serious incident in 2014 - reports
The 26-year-old previously spent four days in custody for his suspected involvement in the 2014 incident.
Online Editors
26 Oct 2020, 13:56
Authorities give green light for limited number of fans to attend Friday's Challenge Cup final
The EPCR have confirmed that Friday evening’s final between Bristol Bears and RC Toulon at the Stade Maurice-David will have sup…
Online Editors
12 Oct 2020, 12:44
Date set for new-look pool stage draw for 2020/21 Champions Cup season
The draw will be staged in Lausanne for the third successive year, taking place on Wednesday October 28.
Online Editors
12 Oct 2020, 5:26
Just 3 players who started against Saracens are in Racing's Top 14 team on Saturday after last week's virus outbreak
The entire Racing squad was forced into isolation last week following nine positive Covid-19 tests, but they are now back in Top 1…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2020, 5:58
11 positive tests sees another Castres match face postponement
Castres have been having trouble with Covid for some weeks now and the latest round of testing results could see anther Top 14 mat…
Online Editors
07 Oct 2020, 10:16
Kiwis in Europe: Why New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs still miss Charlie Ngatai
New Zealand rugby, and the Chiefs in particular, still miss Charlie Ngatai, who continued to show his class for Lyon in the French…
Campbell Burnes
05 Oct 2020, 18:10
'Unacceptable' - 130kg Stade Francais prop blasted for moment of madness
Stade Francais prop Luke Tagi was sent off as his side fell to a home defeat to Bayonne.
Ian Cameron
03 Oct 2020, 6:46
'It wasn't a tough decision' - Gabriel Ibitoye explains why he really left English rugby
Despite eyebrows being raised when he decided to leave Harlequins, the reason behind highly-rated England prospect Gabriel Ibitoye…
Online Editors
03 Oct 2020, 5:21
Castres suffer another cancellation two weeks after Leicester call-off
Kicked out of the Challenge Cup a fortnight ago for illness, Castres have been unable to shake the virus and have now had a Top 14…
Online Editors
02 Oct 2020, 4:23
European finalists Racing plunged into Covid crisis - reports
With 9 cases of Covid-19 reported following midweek testing at Champions Cup finalists Racing, their league game at La Rochelle is…
Liam Heagney
01 Oct 2020, 6:09
'Like Sergio Parisse for the forwards, Ma'a Nonu will be the daddy of the three-quarters'
There was surprise last weekend when Toulon signed 38-year-old Ma'a Nonu, but club owner Bernard Lemaitre insists the deal makes p…
Online Editors
30 Sep 2020, 6:09
Aotearoa Rugby Pod | Who makes the All Blacks extended Rugby Championship squad?
This week on the ARP, James Parsons, Bryn Hall and Ross Karl to discuss which 11 players could join the All Blacks in Australia …
RugbyPass
29 Sep 2020, 2:10
'They've got plenty of dough': New Zealand Rugby stars name the European clubs they would 'love' to join
When it comes to choosing an overseas club to play for, there are a few teams that stand out more than others.
Alex McLeod
28 Sep 2020, 20:27
Report: UK firm makes €200m play for share in LNR
A private equity company in the UK wants to enter into negotiations to buy a €200m share in the LNR (Ligue Nationale de Rugby) i…
Online Editors
28 Sep 2020, 5:24
Italian legend Sergio Parisse targetting one last title in his final run with Toulon
The victory means there will be a fourth final outing in the tournament for the great Italian number eight, Sergio Parisse, who tu…
PA
27 Sep 2020, 0:57
CONFIRMED: Ma'a Nonu returns to Toulon
Two years after leaving Toulon, All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu will return to the Stade Mayol - the club have confirmed.
Online Editors
26 Sep 2020, 15:00
Zebo explains the origins of Finn Russell's Racing 92 nickname
Racing 92 fullback Simon Zebo has revealed the origins of Finn Russell's 'white chocolate' nickname at the Parisian club.
Online Editors
26 Sep 2020, 7:12
Racing owner Lorenzetti lets slip the astronomical salary Maro Itoje wanted
Racing 92 had negotiations earlier this year with Maro Itoje and Parisian club president Jacky Lorenzetti has now revealed why tal…
Liam Heagney
24 Sep 2020, 13:18
Leicester contract rebel Noel Reid suspended after red card on Agen debut
One of five contract rebels who left Leicester in July, Noel Reid had a debut to forget for Agen and he has now been suspended for…
Online Editors
24 Sep 2020, 9:43
'No one could hit you harder than Schalk Burger': Liam Messam opens up about the ferocity of professional rugby
Writing in his column on The XV, former All Blacks backrower Liam Messam, has echoed his old teammate Dan Carter's comments from l…
Online Editors
24 Sep 2020, 3:09
30 player contracts expiring in 2021
The financial hit that many clubs have faced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant there have been widespread salary cuts…
Josh Raisey
20 Sep 2020, 13:52
'We want to make sure the next time we come here, we're six points better than we were tonight'
Scarlets coach Glenn Delaney was left wondering what might have been after his side blew two great chances in the final 15 minutes…
AAP
20 Sep 2020, 3:45
'After almost 10 months straight of rugby, I blew out... but I'm down to 146kgs today'
Ben Tameifuna landed himself in hot water with Racing after the World Cup but he now has his weight under control at new club Bord…
Jamie Lyall
20 Sep 2020, 3:40
A Premiership club has reportedly made a 'colossal offer' for Racing's Virimi Vakatawa
Virimi Vakatawa has become one the world's best players in recent times and his Racing contract situation has opened the door to a…
Online Editors
15 Sep 2020, 10:51
Combative Georgian flanker Kolelishvili retires after two year battle with concussion
Ferocious Georgian forward Viktor Kolelishvili has been forced into an early retirement at the age of 30 after losing a two-year f…
Ian Cameron
14 Sep 2020, 11:55
Montpellier confirm extent of Pollard's horror knee injury
Play was stopped for nearly 20 minutes as Pollard received treatment on the pitch before being stretchered off.
Online Editors
14 Sep 2020, 6:28
'Martin Johnson pretty much said I wasn't good enough' - How being dropped for Lewis Moody changed the career of Steffon Armitage
Former England back row Steffon Armitage says that being dropped by Martin Johnson in favour of Lewis Moody proved a catalyst for …
Ian Cameron
13 Sep 2020, 9:24
'I've read somewhere that I can curl 80kg; I'm not sure anyone alive can do that. But the truth is...'' - Etzebeth
There is a great Eben Etzebeth fable, enshrined in rugby legend, that feeds the narrative of physical freakery and rampant aggress…
Jamie Lyall
13 Sep 2020, 6:16
Video - Cheslin Kolbe steps 3 players in 25 metre dash to the line
Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe showed that the pandemic has done little to stymie his remarkable rugby talents as he cut La Roc…
Online Editors
12 Sep 2020, 15:39
Giant lock beat soldier so badly he needed to drink through a straw for two months
Agen's Victor Moreaux was given a six-month sentence, suspended for two years, and fined €5,000 euro for the incident.
Ian Cameron
12 Sep 2020, 12:11
Pollard hospitalised in France, Beale red carded
Springbok star Handre Pollard has been hospitalised in France following a serious knee injury sustained during Montpellier's loss …
Online Editors
12 Sep 2020, 4:31
Report: Six Nations haymaker thrower punished for mystery indiscretion by MHR
According to Midi Olympique Montpellier prop Mohamed Haouas has been given a warning for a mystery off-field indiscretion.
Online Editors
06 Sep 2020, 11:41
The biggest transfers in rugby union history
While the game may not have had deals struck for hundreds of millions, that does not mean that there have not been some landmark m…
Josh Raisey
06 Sep 2020, 5:22
'Galthie is an amazing coach but there are stories that would leave a bad taste in your mouth'
Former Scottish international Johnnie Beattie has shed light on the inner workings of French national head coach Fabien Galthie, w…
Ian Cameron
05 Sep 2020, 9:30
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Pau
Pau started last season's Top 14 well, but things soon got difficult and it seems they have a lot of work to do if they are to imp…
James Harrington
03 Sep 2020, 9:45
New Top 14 season suffers a postponement before a ball has even been kicked
Getting rugby going again in France is a hardship encapsulated by stricken Stade Francais getting their opening 2020/21 Top 14 gam…
Online Editors
01 Sep 2020, 8:21
Handre Pollard breaks silence on speculation linking him to shock Bath move
South Africa’s Rugby World Cup-winning flyhalf Handre Pollard denied reports Monday linking him with a move from Montpellier to …
Online Editors
31 Aug 2020, 10:54
Former Italy lock Josh Furno pops up in France's sixth flight competition
Not so very long ago he was contesting lineouts against the likes of Paul O'Connell and Alun Wyn Jones in the Six Nations, but now…
Ian Cameron
31 Aug 2020, 7:17
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Agen
There's something about Agen - they have recruited and, on the whole, retained well which must mean they will do better than 13th …
James Harrington
29 Aug 2020, 8:25
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Bayonne
Bayonne will begin their difficult second season back in the Top 14 with lofty ambitions but could find their dreams quickly turn …
James Harrington
28 Aug 2020, 10:05
Toulouse friendly cancelled after player tests positive for coronavirus
Preparations for the 2020/21 Top 14 season next weekend have suffered a setback with the coronavirus cancellation of the Toulouse …
Online Editors
28 Aug 2020, 6:50
Australian lock Cummins checks in at Pau as a medical joker
Steven Cummins hasn't featured for Scarlets since last February and he has now arrived at Pau as a medical joker for the 2020/21 T…
Online Editors
26 Aug 2020, 12:00
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Brive
Brive were worthy returnees to the Top 14 after a single Pro D2 campaign and while recruitment has been limited, there can expect …
James Harrington
26 Aug 2020, 7:17
Clermont become latest French club to confirm positive COVID test just two weeks out from Top 14 return
The club stated that while the individual in question had not been present on the training ground, he had attended a meeting with …
Online Editors
23 Aug 2020, 12:36
The Top 14's radically different approach to social distancing
Images shared on social media from a pre-season friendly between La Rochelle and Toulouse show supporters sitting in groups along …
Online Editors
23 Aug 2020, 10:16
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Castres Olympique
Castres Olympique threw out the old after a forgettable coronavirus-curtailed season and head into the 2020/21 campaign with a new…
James Harrington
20 Aug 2020, 10:58
'Lung lesions' the latest issue as Stade Francais players struggle to shake off coronavirus
It was August 6 when it first emerged that Stade Francais had a coronavirus issue with their squad and the Top 14 club is still st…
Online Editors
19 Aug 2020, 13:58
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Lyon
Some of the new recruits at Lyon this season may be a little long in the tooth but make no mistake, the club is building for the l…
James Harrington
19 Aug 2020, 7:15
Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: La Rochelle
La Rochelle were fifth when the 2019/20 Top 14 season was called off early, so why are we wondering about what might have been for…
James Harrington
18 Aug 2020, 8:05
ProD2 side Colomiers draft former All Black Elliott
Colomiers have secured the services of 34-year-old former All Blacks hooker Hika Elliott, who has been drafted as a medical joker.
Online Editors
17 Aug 2020, 12:40
Wasps fail in 'best efforts to keep' Flament as highly-rated lock agrees to join Toulouse
The highly-rated lock played 16 times for Wasps having joined the senior academy for the 2019/20 season from Loughborough Students…
Online Editors
17 Aug 2020, 12:21
Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Bordeaux
Expect Bordeaux to take the frustration of last season out on their opponents this time around, but how well will they handle the …
James Harrington
17 Aug 2020, 3:47
Every country in the world where you can be paid to play rugby
There are plenty of countries where the game is growing, with professional competitions in all four corners of the world.
Josh Raisey
16 Aug 2020, 9:06
Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Stade Francais
A new coach and some restrained, highly targeted, work in the transfer market could work wonders for Stade Francais in the Top 14
James Harrington
16 Aug 2020, 6:03
French rugby hit by extended ban on large public gatherings, Montpellier shut down collective training
Concerns about increased coronavirus cases have led to the French ban on public gatherings of no more than 5,000 being increased a…
Online Editors
11 Aug 2020, 12:38
World Rugby extension of eligibility could open door to fresh player captures
The decision by World Rugby to extend the date of the ending of their three-year eligibility rule could open the door to the home …
Ian Cameron
10 Aug 2020, 13:30
At least three Montpellier stars linked with Gallagher Premiership moves
A number of Montpellier Herault's top stars are being linked with a move to the Gallagher Premiership following on from their amic…
Ian Cameron
10 Aug 2020, 12:04
Report: General manager denies that nearly half of Stade Francais squad have tested positive for virus
Stade Francais have been forced to cancel their next friendly with Brive due a significant proportion of their club testing positi…
Online Editors
09 Aug 2020, 14:59
Rivals want Saracens like punishment for Montpellier, despite huge fine in salary cap case
The noses of Montpellier Hérault's Top 14 rivals has been left out of joint after the club came to an "amicable" settlement in th…
Ian Cameron
08 Aug 2020, 10:10
'No regrets at all': Ben Mowen opens up on decision to quit Wallabies captaincy six years ago
Six years after shocking Australian rugby to take a contract in France in his prime, former Wallabies captain Ben Mowen speaks abo…
Finn Morton
06 Aug 2020, 23:26
Harlequins sign Maks van Dyk from Toulouse on short-term deal
Van Dyk joins Quins having spent the last four years in France, and previouly played for reigning Pro14 champions Leinster.
Online Editors
06 Aug 2020, 9:13
Up to a third of the Stade Francais squad test positive for COVID19 - reports
The squad had recently returned from a training camp in Nice ahead of the resumption of the Top14 season.
Online Editors
06 Aug 2020, 8:48
Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Toulon
The club is in stable situation, and looking to a new, very different, but no less intimidating future.
James Harrington
05 Aug 2020, 6:48
Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Racing 92
Racing 92, the most 'Made In France' team of the French 2020/21 season, will be battling on three fronts from September - the Top …
James Harrington
04 Aug 2020, 10:36
Top 14 club-by-club 2020-21 Season Preview: Clermont
The 2020/21 Clermont squad looks stronger, more balanced and has a back line to terrify even the most organised of defences.
James Harrington
03 Aug 2020, 4:46
Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Toulouse
Head coach Ugo Mola has a return to European glory in his sights as he rebuilds Toulouse in his own image
James Harrington
02 Aug 2020, 9:35
Three players test positive for COVID-19 at single Top 14 club
There's been a setback for the resumption of rugby in France, with news that three players at Top 14 side Lyon have tested positiv…
Online Editors
01 Aug 2020, 12:55
The 2 Premiership clubs Abendanon snubbed to stay in France
Former Bath and England fullback Nick Abendanon has admitted that he turned down two Gallagher Premiership club in favour of a two…
Ian Cameron
30 Jul 2020, 12:39
Agen confirm they have signed Gabriel Ibitoye
Gabriel Ibitoye was tipped to become part of the long-term Harlequins furniture but he has traded the Premiership for a stint at A…
Online Editors
29 Jul 2020, 11:46
Fijian France 7s player who was in Foreign Legion has become Clermont medical joker
From Fiji, Tavite Veredamu came to France at the age of 18 when he enlisted in the Foreign Legion and he has now linked up with Cl…
Online Editors
28 Jul 2020, 5:55
Castres No.8 Tulou pulls out of Beziers move, confirming new Top 14 club on social
Destructive Castres No.8 Alex Tulou will not sign for ProD2 Beziers, as widely reported upon in France.
Online Editors
27 Jul 2020, 8:53
Jamie Cudmore has labelled the French the black sheep of the rugby world
Ex-second row enforcer Jamie Cudmore is now coaching in Canada but he isn't letting go of his frightening concussion experiences a…
Online Editors
25 Jul 2020, 9:27
Springboks second row Eben Etzebeth has extended his contract at Toulon
Eben Etzebeth arrived in Toulon last November after winning the World Cup with South Africa with a view to spending just two years…
Online Editors
24 Jul 2020, 5:39
Rugby player (19) dies in France after being struck down by rare illness during training
USBPA Rugby in France have confirmed the death of 19-year-old prop Nicolas Gigot, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday m…
Online Editors
18 Jul 2020, 16:29
A star-studded Top 14 'new entrants' XV
While broadly speaking clubs across Europe have tightened their belts over the course of a locked-down 2020, the Top 14 have manag…
Ian Cameron
18 Jul 2020, 11:07
Opening weekend repeat of 2019 final catches the eye as 2020/21 Top 14 fixtures released
Toulouse vs Clermont will headline the return of club action in France on the weekend of September 5 after the 2020/21 Top 14 fixt…
Online Editors
16 Jul 2020, 9:07
A little-known Ealing academy graduate has just signed for Toulon
Having spotted his academy talent, three-time Heineken Cup Champions Toulon have activated a release clause in the Ealing contract…
Online Editors
14 Jul 2020, 9:24
Disaster for Beziers as takeover deal falls through and club threatened with relegation
The UAE investors at the centre of a bid to takeover of Beziers have pulled out after the DNACG rejected their approach, ending th…
Ian Cameron
13 Jul 2020, 12:15
Billionaire Beziers buyout: All not well at a 'tense' club claims coach
The head coach of Beziers says that the future of the club is bleak if its much-touted buyout does not go ahead.
Ian Cameron
12 Jul 2020, 13:37
Former England fullback Nick Abendanon to stay in France after signing for ProD2 side
Former England fullback Nick Abendanon will be staying in France after all, with official confirmation of a two-year deal being re…
Ian Cameron
11 Jul 2020, 16:53
Noel Reid the third of the Leicester 5 to secure a new club
Irish centre Noel Reid appears to be the third of the Leicester five to secure a new employer, according to reports emanating from…
Ian Cameron
11 Jul 2020, 16:04
Springbok Lionel Mapoe signs for ambitious Nationale side
Former Springbok Lionel Mapoe is the latest player to take up a contract for a Federale 1 team. Nice have the signed the former Li…
Ian Cameron
11 Jul 2020, 10:47
Clermont take to Instagram to celebrate arrival of new signing Matsushima
Six months after it was confirmed he would switch from Top League to Top 14, Japan winger Kotaro Matsushima has arrived in Clermon…
Josh Raisey
10 Jul 2020, 13:33
France-bound Wallaby still gunning for international matches
Matt Philip isn't turning his back on Australian rugby with his move to France but is doing it to improve his chances of becoming …
AAP
07 Jul 2020, 18:03
Remy Grosso has returned to where it all started for him in France
Last capped in June 2018, France winger Remy Grosso earned his stripes in the professional ranks at Lyon, spending five seasons th…
Online Editors
07 Jul 2020, 7:42
Hawke's Bay cult figure and Super Rugby title winner returns to the Magpies for 2020 season
Sona Taumalolo, the prop who came so close to topping the 2012 Super Rugby try-scoring charts with 9 to his name, is making a retu…
Online Editors
02 Jul 2020, 19:30
The early favourite to sign Manu Tuilagi, and why Gatland may have a say in it
Since the confirmation of the departure of Manu Tuilagi from Leicester Tigers, speculation has been rife as to which club the Engl…
Ian Cameron
02 Jul 2020, 14:21
Beziers provide update on their potential billionaire takeover
An important update has been given today on the potential billionaire takeover of French rugby club Béziers. A report today conf…
Online Editors
02 Jul 2020, 11:24
REPORT: French media claim Courtney Lawes 'in advanced' talks with ProD2 big spenders
French media are claiming that England lock Courtney Lawes is in advanced talks with nouveau riche ProD2 side Beziers.
Ian Cameron
28 Jun 2020, 16:04
Billionaire investors' takeover of Beziers expected 'in the next few days' after Paris meeting
The takeover of AS Béziers Hérault by billionaire UAE investors is set to go ahead 'in the next few days' according to the ProD2…
Ian Cameron
28 Jun 2020, 13:46
Welsh and All Black stars linked to France's next super-rich club - reports
All Blacks star Beauden Barrett and Wales sharpshooter Dan Biggar and among two names linked with what many are touting as France'…
Ian Cameron
28 Jun 2020, 5:09
Tyler Ardron's time with the Chiefs comes to an end
The Chiefs will bid farewell to versatile Canadian forward Tyler Ardron at the end of June.
Online Editors
27 Jun 2020, 2:27
France's Section Paloise announce the signing of Chiefs midfielder, Wallabies lock and Fijian sevens rep
The Pau rugby club in France has announced a number of key signings for the coming season, including Chiefs midfielder Tumua Manu.
Online Editors
27 Jun 2020, 1:18
The average height and weight of pro-rugby players by position in Europe
Within each nation, the league is often a bellwether of how its representative team plays, as it is often the platform in which pl…
Josh Raisey
26 Jun 2020, 11:31
How the heights and weights of full-backs compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14
What these stats do is help reveal the lack of variation among full-backs within and between leagues in Europe compared to most ot…
Josh Raisey
24 Jun 2020, 14:10
Confirmed: Kurtley Beale departs Waratahs with immediate effect
The NSW Waratahs can confirm that Kurtley Beale will not return for Super Rugby AU, after being released from the remainder of his…
Online Editors
22 Jun 2020, 23:40
The average height and weight of fly-halves in Europe
The increase in the size of rugby players over the past thirty years is plain to see, and something that is substantial.
Josh Raisey
21 Jun 2020, 13:05
Reports: Wallabies star set for early exit from club, will skip Super Rugby AU
Wallabies fullback Kurtley Beale is set to make an early exit from the Waratahs before he begins his career with the Racing 92 clu…
Online Editors
20 Jun 2020, 18:17
Lyon confirm six new signings, including Super Rugby contract rebel Rodda
At a media conference on Wednesday, Lyon president Yann Roubert presented six new signings for the 2020/21 season - including Reds…
Online Editors
17 Jun 2020, 6:26
Potential conflict of interest means we could soon be seeing less of Altrad at Montpellier
Outspoken Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad faces having to curb his enormous influence at the Top 14 club due to a potential conflic…
Online Editors
16 Jun 2020, 7:40
World Rugby to vote on completing 2020 season, further talks on new global calendar to be held
Presidents and representatives from both hemispheres took part in an online forum which looked at creating a new unified global ru…
Ciarán Kennedy
15 Jun 2020, 14:12
New global calendar up for discussion as international and club bosses set for major World Rugby meeting
A number of proposals surrounding the global rugby calendar are set to be discussed during an online forum hosted by World Rugby o…
Online Editors
15 Jun 2020, 7:28
How the heights and weights of wingers compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14
Variation shines when comparing early January wingers across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14, Montpellier fielding players with …
Josh Raisey
14 Jun 2020, 7:00
Blair Connor has retired with immediate effect at the age of 31
Australian Blair Connor has been at Bordeaux since 2010 and although contracted for next season, he has retired at just the age of…
Online Editors
12 Jun 2020, 7:52
Ex-All Black Toeava one of 3 new Toulon signings, French skipper Ollivon and Parisse among 11 contract extensions
Patrice Collazo has been busy planning for 2020/21 at Toulon, signing ex-All Black Toeava and keeping French skipper Ollivon and v…
Online Editors
12 Jun 2020, 6:16
Lopeti Timani facing suspended sentence following brawl outside French nightclub
Wallaby Lopeti Timani, the 29-year-old La Rochelle back row, was prosecuted for “violence with a weapon” outside a French nigh…
Online Editors
09 Jun 2020, 5:05
Confirmed: Lozowski heading to France despite signing new Saracens contract
Lozowski will spend next season on loan with Top14 side Montpellier before returning to Saracens for the 2021/22 season.
Ciarán Kennedy
08 Jun 2020, 8:18
Former All Black Taylor sacked by Pau after walking out on club
Former All Blacks standoff Tom Taylor has been sensationally sacked by Top 14 side Pau, for going AWOL from the club during the lo…
Ian Cameron
07 Jun 2020, 7:22
Montpellier sign French international Rattez
Montpellier have confirmed the signing of French international wing Vincent Rattez ahead of the 2020/2021 season.
Ian Cameron
06 Jun 2020, 11:15
Highly-rated Kremer the latest Jag to be linked with Top 14
Pumas forward Marcos Kremer is the latest Jaguares player to be linked with a move to France and the Top 14.
Ian Cameron
06 Jun 2020, 8:02
Title-winning Gonzalo Quesada is back in charge at Stade Francais
Gonzalo Quesada last year guided the Buenos Aires-based Jaguares to a first-ever Super Rugby final, but he has now been tempted to…
Online Editors
06 Jun 2020, 5:11
The good, bad and ugly: 10 All Blacks who came back to New Zealand like Dan Carter did
It's been five years since Dan Carter last played professional rugby in New Zealand, so how could he pan out after stints in Franc…
Alex McLeod
06 Jun 2020, 0:43
Emiliano Boffelli could be first to land big contract after Jags suggest players leave
Pumas utility back Emiliano Boffelli could be the first of the Jaguares stars to land a big overseas contract, after the Super Rug…
Online Editors
01 Jun 2020, 14:19
The average weight and height of loosehead props in Europe
RugbyPass looks at the weight and height of loosehead props across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14 to see how the leagues’ No1…
Josh Raisey
01 Jun 2020, 12:20
Bath centre Willison signs for Soyaux Angoulme
Bath centre Jackson Willison has signed for Soyaux Angoulême in the ProD2, the club have confirmed. A powerful, dynamic inside ce…
Online Editors
31 May 2020, 11:09
Toulouse to re-create the tallest engine-room pairing in history of rugby by re-uniting giant twins
Toulouse are set to re-create the biggest locking partnership in the history of the game by re-uniting two gigantic Australian twi…
Ian Cameron
30 May 2020, 7:03
Date set for global calendar summit that could change the rugby schedule forever - report
Following talks between Six Nations and SANZAAR, a follow-up is now scheduled for Dublin that includes Premiership, Top 14, PRO14 …
Online Editors
30 May 2020, 5:20
The Top 14's latest Fiji signings in talks to keep Olympic 7s dream alive
Fiji pair Tuimaba and Botitu have secured deals in the Top 14, but they are hoping for a compromise to release them for Olympics 7…
Chris Jones
29 May 2020, 13:00
Troubled Izaia Perese back in union after securing Top 14 deal
Izaia Perese was on Michael Cheika’s Wallabies radar before he switched to NRL… now after a drugs charge, he is back in union …
Online Editors
29 May 2020, 9:29
Fijian Tuicuvu among list of 5 players in at Davidson's Brive
It was May 2 when Brive announced that 10 players would leave… the Top 14 club have now recruited 5 replacements, including Fiji…
Online Editors
29 May 2020, 8:42
'If you kick your goals and you put your team in the right parts of the field, everyone loves you over here'
In 2018, former Blues and Hurricanes playmaker made the decision to leave NZ and link up with La Rochelle in France. It's a move t…
Tom Vinicombe
27 May 2020, 22:17
Kolbe and co hit as Toulouse become 3rd Top 14 club to announce 2020/21 season pay cuts
With the remainder of the 2019/20 Top 14 season cancelled, Toulouse have agreed on a budget for 2020/21 that includes a pay cut fo…
Online Editors
27 May 2020, 11:52
World Champion Springboks set to return to the field sooner rather than later
Some of South Africa’s World Cup winners will be back on the field in a matter of weeks.
Online Editors
23 May 2020, 17:11
French flyhalf Remi Tales blows 'final whistle' on career
French 10 Remi Tales has called time on his 16-year-long professional rugby career at the age of thirty six.
Online Editors
23 May 2020, 15:19
How the heights and weights of hookers compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14
Cultural norms shine through when comparing hookers across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14, but there is still a model of what s…
Josh Raisey
22 May 2020, 14:10
'Du Toit interests me': Montpellier's Altrad talks PSDT and negotiations with Folau
Two household rugby names, Pieter-Steph du Toit and Israel Folau, were recently linked to Montpellier… the French club’s owner…
Online Editors
22 May 2020, 5:56
What will Lyon do with Bastareaud?: 'He has the potential to become a very good No8'
Back in Top 14 after his flirtation with Major League Rugby was cut short, the speculation has started on which position Bastareau…
Online Editors
22 May 2020, 5:46
The 10 best value European rugby transfers for 2020/21
Big-name European rugby signings catch the eye and grab column inches, but it is often less-heralded transfers that end up making …
Alex Shaw
20 May 2020, 13:57
Steyn's canvassing counts for nought as Montpellier keep du Plessis
Frans Steyn had hoped his lobbying might convince Bismarck du Plessis to follow him home from Montpellier but it hasn't worked out…
Online Editors
20 May 2020, 9:59
'You can play up to 32 games a year and it's just mental': Colin Slade explains why the Top 14 is on a completely different level to Super Rugby
Exclusive: Colin Slade spent almost half a decade slogging it out in the turgid conditions of France's Top 14 and will now turn hi…
Tom Vinicombe
20 May 2020, 2:19
Greig Laidlaw posts 'crazy times' farewell after three years at Clermont
Leaving Clermont is proving emotional even though it was long expected that ex-Scotland skipper Laidlaw would move on at the end o…
Josh Raisey
19 May 2020, 13:47
Carl Fearns is staying in France after agreeing Pro D2 deal with ex-England scrum-half
With his five-year stint over at Top 14 Lyon, ex-Bath back row Carl Fearns will hook up with former England scrum-half Richard Hil…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2020, 8:46
'I've never told this story before - I don't even think my Mrs knows'
As a little boy, Joseph Dweba would beg his parents for rugby boots, pleading for the most basic, mundane essentials that his frie…
Jamie Lyall
18 May 2020, 14:48
Ex-All Blacks centre Saili swaps Harlequins for Biarritz
Harlequins centre and former All Black Francis Saili will be plying his trade in the ProD2 next season after agreeing to join Biar…
Online Editors
17 May 2020, 14:53
'It's a shame it ends like this' - Ex-All Black Chris Masoe on his Racing axing
Chris Masoe moved into a defence coach role after finishing as a player at Racing in 2016/17, but that association ended earlier t…
Online Editors
16 May 2020, 5:33
Former Wallabies flanker Liam Gill departs French club Lyon
Former Wallabies flanker Liam Gill has left Lyon after three seasons with the club, making a potential return to Super Rugby possi…
Online Editors
16 May 2020, 1:28
Concealed injuries and the luckiest break in the world: The almost unbelievable, untold story of Karl Tu'inukuafe
Exclusive: Everybody knows the basic tale of the bouncer who was called into the Chiefs squad in 2018 and made his All Blacks debu…
Tom Vinicombe
15 May 2020, 18:53
The reason France-bound Dillyn Leyds is gutted to be leaving the Stormers
Stormers coach John Dobson revealed this week that Dillyn Leyds has played his final match for the club before a move to La Rochel…
Josh Raisey
15 May 2020, 11:21
Israel Folau has turned down the chance to switch from league into the Top 14
Rugby league’s Catalan Dragons gave Israel Folau the chance to restart his career after his sacking by Rugby Australia and he ha…
Online Editors
14 May 2020, 13:34
Bordeaux-Begles confirm the signing of one of the biggest props the world's ever seen
Bordeaux-Begles have confirmed the signing of two formidable front-rowers for next season, the French Top 14 club said on Tuesday.
Online Editors
14 May 2020, 1:24
Julian Savea unsure of post-Toulon destination: 'It could be another franchise, it could be Japan, it could be the NZ Warriors'
54-cap All Blacks wing and Hurricanes centurion Julian Savea is heading back to New Zealand and could be back on the pitch in the …
Online Editors
13 May 2020, 17:11
What Ben Smith learned from the sending-off that spear-headed his career in France
Former All Black Ben Smith didn't have the smoothest of starts to his career in France but he certainly learned a valuable lesson …
Tom Vinicombe
12 May 2020, 21:37
Former Wallabies captain calls for scrapping of Giteau Law in wake of Kurtley Beale's offshore move
A former Wallabies captain believes the only way to counter the riches of overseas clubs is to scrap the Giteau Law.
AAP
12 May 2020, 18:10
RFU issue statement amid latest Premiership Rugby club-versus-country fears
Premiership Rugby (PRL) and Ligue Nationale de Rugby (LNR) had demanded they are consulted before any plans are confirmed for the …
Chris Jones
12 May 2020, 6:07
Racing 92 confirm signing of veteran Wallabies star Kurtley Beale
After 13 years of service in Australia, Kurtley Beale will depart for French glamour club Racing 92 ahead of the 2020-21 season.
Alex McLeod
11 May 2020, 18:50
French international Benjamin Fall exits Montpellier after 'complicated' final season
Former French international Benjamin Fall is leaving Montpellier after six seasons with the Top 14 side. Having signed in 2014, Fa…
Online Editors
10 May 2020, 15:41
Aaron Cruden sets the record straight: what went wrong in France and why he returned to New Zealand
Exclusive: After two years in France, Aaron Cruden made the decision to move back home to represent the Chiefs side that he won tw…
Tom Vinicombe
10 May 2020, 2:01
'He omitted a few big details': Toulon fire back following recent Rhys Webb criticism
Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb used a recent podcast appearance to slam Toulon’s handling of him but the French club’s Patrice Col…
Online Editors
09 May 2020, 10:06
Ben Volavola set for Pro D2 after defeat in his Racing battle with Finn Russell
Fijian Ben Volavola has spent the majority of his stay at Racing playing second fiddle to Finn Russell, starting just two matches …
Online Editors
09 May 2020, 6:01
Confirmed: Colin Slade waves goodbye to French rugby and joins Japan's Dynaboars
The two-time World Cup winner headed to the Top 14 following New Zealand's 2015 triumph, but his five-season stay is now over.
RugbyPass
07 May 2020, 8:21
Carl Fearns posts bizarre footage of tussle with stewards, confirms his 'strange' exit from Lyon
Carl Fearns has confirmed on social media that his time at Top 14 club Lyon has come to an end. The English No.8 spent five at the…
Ian Cameron
03 May 2020, 9:52
Scotland outcast Alex Dunbar among 10 players released from Top 14 Brive
The 2019/20 Top 14 season was terminated on Thursday, French officials finally admitting defeat in their quest to eventually resta…
Liam Heagney
02 May 2020, 13:33
'Toulon didn't have the decency to talk to me face-to-face'
Family reasons resulted in the French club releasing Rhys Webb from the last year of a deal due to last to 2021, but they then sou…
Online Editors
01 May 2020, 5:33
'I was on the sideline going, f***, I only retired a year-and-a-half ago and this is ridiculous'
Before we get to the savagery of modern rugby, life in France and with Scotland and the years of graft under the brilliant Vern Co…
Jamie Lyall
30 Apr 2020, 15:11
'Mike Phillips was drunk all the time'
Six-and-a-half years have passed since the abrupt parting of the ways between Bayonne and the ex-Wales scrum-half who played 40 To…
Online Editors
30 Apr 2020, 11:55
French rugby season to be abandoned
The French Top 14 rugby union season is to be abandoned amid the COVID-19 crisis after the league's organisers (LNR) and the club …
Online Editors
30 Apr 2020, 7:11
French hopes of resuming Top 14 season before summer is over suffer fatal blow
The French Prime Minister has outlined how slowly the country will come out of lockdown following coronavirus and that emergence d…
Online Editors
28 Apr 2020, 16:19
How the heights and weights of locks compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14
RugbyPass has sifted through the size of every starting lock in all the fixtures from the first week of January, calculated the av…
Josh Raisey
28 Apr 2020, 13:40
Building the perfect rugby player: Full-back
What makes for the perfect rugby player? We finish our series on the prototype players with a look at the full-back position.
Alex Shaw
27 Apr 2020, 7:54
The bench press records of 47 elite rugby players
It's a sports' cliché, but the bench press continues to occupy a uniquely macho seat in the pantheon of weight training disciplin…
Ian Cameron
26 Apr 2020, 4:07
Rugby's rich list: The world's highest-paid players in 2020
A list of the 15 best-paid rugby players on the planet has been released, and it features a few interesting names.
Online Editors
24 Apr 2020, 23:26
Bakkies Botha has never forgotten his crude welcome to Top 14 rugby at the bottom of a ruck in Biarritz
The Springbok enforcer thrived on his reputation as a hard man who thought he had seen and experienced it all, but what happened a…
Online Editors
24 Apr 2020, 9:12
Building the perfect rugby player: Outside Centre
Our series looking at building the perfect rugby player moves on to the outside centre position, with examples ranging from Manu T…
Alex Shaw
23 Apr 2020, 9:16
Matt Giteau reveals why his globe-trotting 20-year odyssey is coming to an end
Exclusive: If you’re looking for a quintessential example of the modern-day rugby professional, then you need look no further th…
Tom Vinicombe
21 Apr 2020, 1:23
Building the perfect rugby player: Inside Centre
Our series attempting to build the perfect rugby player moves on to inside centre, where a contrast of styles make it hard to lock…
Alex Shaw
20 Apr 2020, 10:05
It's now official... Bastareaud is back in the Top 14 at Lyon
It was April 1 when it RugbyPass reported that instead of staying on in America, the ex-France midfielder would be heading back to…
Liam Heagney
18 Apr 2020, 8:28
Jamie Cudmore's salty response to French plans to restart the 2019/20 Top 14
Life in France is in lockdown until May 11 at the earliest following the latest coronavirus pandemic restrictions enforced by its …
Online Editors
16 Apr 2020, 4:50
The Future of Rugby: France U23
The latest in the Future of Rugby series looks at France and what sort of U23 XV they could field... the future is bright for Les …
Alex Shaw
15 Apr 2020, 7:10
Biting, eye-gouging and ref abuse: The longest bans in rugby union history
Bans are something that receive a lot of attention these days in rugby, particularly due to how arbitrary and inconsistent they ca…
Josh Raisey
13 Apr 2020, 10:35
Chilling warning for top French clubs facing cash crisis
A leading French rugby official has issued a chilling warning about the financial impact of COVID-19.
Chris Jones
13 Apr 2020, 5:16
French owner issues stinging rebuke to rivals who claim rugby players are generally overpaid
With rugby halted and players around the globe taking pandemic pay cuts, one French club president insists the virus shouldn't bec…
Online Editors
10 Apr 2020, 11:06
Racing admit defeat in bold attempt to sign Maro Itoje - report
With Saracens set for demotion to the Championship over salary cap breaches, Top 14 Racing made a play to sign the England second …
Online Editors
09 Apr 2020, 14:56
The average height and weight of outside centres
While it is hard to perfectly describe what an ideal outside centre looks like, there are still expectations and requirements amon…
Josh Raisey
08 Apr 2020, 12:22
After the pandemic: blood on the streets as a new-look future for French pro rugby emerges
French pro rugby clubs have 'put an absolute brake' on recruitment and are seriously rethinking their finances
James Harrington
08 Apr 2020, 10:29
Super Rugby boss Andy Marinos coy on ambitious Club World Cup proposal
SANZAAR chief executive Andy Marinos has remained coy on plans about a proposed Club World Cup which could involve Super Rugby clu…
Online Editors
08 Apr 2020, 1:21
EPCR confirm talks have taken place regarding new global club tournament
EPCR have responded to comments by French Rugby President Bernard Laporte, who has outlined his hopes of introducing a new Club Wo…
Ciarán Kennedy
06 Apr 2020, 15:26
Laporte outlines plan to replace Champions Cup with a new Club World Cup
The French Rugby President is hoping to be elected World Rugby vice-chairman next month.
Online Editors
06 Apr 2020, 11:55
11 rugby household names who may have unwittingly played their final games
The current coronavirus pandemic has decimated rugby and other sports competitions across the world, leaving many suspended, postp…
Josh Raisey
02 Apr 2020, 10:21
'Nah, that's not him, this is not our guy. This guy is small and fat'
Loni Uhila’s mighty knees trembled as he walked through the door of his family home and came face to face with the father who ha…
Jamie Lyall
01 Apr 2020, 14:38
Bastareaud is heading back to the Top 14 on a two-year deal
The French veteran's recruitment by Rugby United New York made headlines around the rugby world when he agreed to move to America …
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2020, 7:56
Greig Laidlaw's next stop revealed... and it isn't in France
It was January when it was reported that the scrum-half was on his way out of Clermont following a three-year stay and would be st…
Online Editors
31 Mar 2020, 10:42
The goal-kicking custom that Matt Giteau just can't get his head around
Matt Giteau may have played over 300 first-class professional games of rugby but there’s one European goal-kicking custom that h…
Tom Vinicombe
31 Mar 2020, 1:09
Finn Russell: 'Still, for me, I want to fix things'
The Scotland out-half believes he and head coach Gregor Townsend will have a better relationship following their public falling ou…
Ian Cameron
28 Mar 2020, 11:15
The average height and weight of a Northern Hemisphere inside centre
Of all the positions on a rugby field, inside centre is probably the most diverse. The role and shape of players in this position …
Josh Raisey
27 Mar 2020, 14:42
View from the coronavirus front line: French referee on life as emergency room doctor
31-year-old Top 14 official Thomas Charabas is working in a Bayonne hospital and has spoken to Midi Olympique about his experience…
Online Editors
27 Mar 2020, 6:13
Kurtley Beale has landed a two-year deal in France - reports
The 31-year-old Australian international is currently with the Waratahs, whom he joined after a stint in 2016/17 with Wasps, the E…
Online Editors
26 Mar 2020, 11:43
Stade Francais' generosity provides sharp contrast to threatened Premiership mutiny
Rather than suggest legal action, as is the situation with some players in England after a 25 per cent pay, the Parisian club have…
Online Editors
26 Mar 2020, 7:05
The uncomfortable rugby truth exposed by the global pandemic
Rugby has always been inclined to puff out its chest and tell you just how much it’s growing. In a report by Nielsen Sports in 2…
Owain Jones
26 Mar 2020, 5:25
War of words in France - 'It's not a question of a cockfight or selfish interests of each club'
There has been much commentary in France about how and when the season might resume when the current lockdown restrictions are lif…
Online Editors
25 Mar 2020, 8:46
Nadolo can't wait to form 39-stone partnership with Tuilagi
Nemani Nadolo gets bashful when asked about wiring money to his Pacific Island brethren, as though taking credit for acts of kindn…
Jamie Lyall
25 Mar 2020, 7:38
One French coach's radical solution for completing the Top 14 season
With no date set for the resumption the French league, Philippe Saint-Andre of eighth place Montpellier doesn’t believe the rema…
Online Editors
19 Mar 2020, 12:42
Uncertain times: 'Players aren't sure whether to come home and go up there or stay or what to do'
The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the state of rugby around the world has left many New Zealand rugby players with a sense…
Online Editors
17 Mar 2020, 16:38
How rugby can think outside the box and mitigate its losses during uncertain times
Whatever developments take place later in the season, rugby’s popularity will be impacted its decreased presence on TV screens i…
Tom Vinicombe
16 Mar 2020, 23:36
French officials follow PRO14's lead with its Top 14 season
The Top 14 was due to resume next weekend following a break for the closing rounds of the Guinness Six Nations, with Toulouse vs L…
Online Editors
13 Mar 2020, 11:13
Waratahs set for major blow as Kurtley Beale eyed up by French club
The Waratahs are set for a major blow in the wake of reports that Kurtley Beale is close to signing a deal in France.
Online Editors
05 Mar 2020, 19:56
Cheslin Kolbe spotted training with Super Rugby's Stormers
The South African franchise shared a photo on Instagram of the winger clad in their training kit, alongside Jamie Roberts in a ses…
Josh Raisey
04 Mar 2020, 8:01
New Leicester signing Nadolo makes Montpellier promise before summer exit
The signing announcement was made official on Monday after RugbyPass revealed last Friday that the deal was done for the Fijian be…
Online Editors
03 Mar 2020, 11:52
'I've gone from Harlequins to Racing to Lyon to Exeter - four incredible top teams - when I could have been stuck at Scarlets playing for Llandovery'
Sam Hidalgo-Clyne's odyssey of loans, medical joker contracts and short-term deals was a voyage he willingly embraced in a bold qu…
Jamie Lyall
03 Mar 2020, 8:15
Saracens star Will Skelton confirms to Rugby Australia he isn't coming home
Will Skelton has confirmed to Rugby Australia officials that he won't be returning to Australia in the wake of Saracens' salary ca…
Online Editors
02 Mar 2020, 21:24
Skelton to leave Saracens for Top14 - reports
The ongoing fallout surrounding Saracens' relegation from the Gallagher Premiership as a result of salary cap breaches has seen a …
Online Editors
02 Mar 2020, 5:12
Ex-All Black Casey Laulala has left Toulon with immediate effect - reports
The 37-year-old, who last played in the 2016/17 season, had taken up a skills manager post at Toulon after initially dipping his …
Online Editors
29 Feb 2020, 9:14
Date set for Nakarawa to contest Racing contract termination
The Fijian, who has since rejoined his former club Glasgow, fell foul of the Parisians following his late return from the World Cu…
Online Editors
28 Feb 2020, 7:16
Nagusa exits Montpellier with immediate effect, England-bound Nadolo to follow in summer
The French Top 14 club are set to be two Fijians down next season as Nagusa and Nadolo won’t be part of the new Philippe Saint-A…
Online Editors
28 Feb 2020, 6:51
Ex-Wallaby Lopeti Timani given French court date for nightclub bottle incident
French newspaper Sud Ouest have reported that the back row must answer a case relating to throwing a bottle that left a nightclub …
Online Editors
26 Feb 2020, 5:27
Newcastle provide the solution after Toulon's loss of Rhys Webb
The pre-Six Nations exit of the Welsh scrum-half left the Top 14 club with a headache they have now managed to solve by turning to…
Online Editors
21 Feb 2020, 9:28
Vern Cotter granted early release from Montpellier
The French club have a huge Top 14 fixture on Sunday at Toulouse but they are preparing for it minus the New Zealander who has fin…
Online Editors
21 Feb 2020, 8:56
Sevens postponements have Fiji fearing French-based stars won't make the Olympics
Gaining release of some world-class players from their clubs is now tougher as the Singapore and Hong Kong postponements have coun…
Chris Jones
18 Feb 2020, 13:15
The verdict is in on the Kolbe-at-No10 experiment
Speed meant there was never any doubt the 26-year-old was going to cause havoc at fly-half, but there was a huge amount more requi…
Josh Raisey
17 Feb 2020, 8:14
Just one vote stopped former internationals from switching Test allegiances
The chairman of Pacific Rugby Players, Hale T-Pole, has revealed that one of rugby's most discussed potential eligibility law chan…
Tom Vinicombe
15 Feb 2020, 16:55
Cheslin Kolbe to make sensational positional switch for Toulouse
He's known for wreaking havoc on the wing, but World Cup winning Springbok Cheslin Kolbe is set to go into unchartered territory w…
Ian Cameron
15 Feb 2020, 12:52
France and the evolution of the modern fly-half - and the rebirth of a prototype
Historically, France has had a love-meh relationship with its 10s - think Jules Plisson, David Skrela, Francois Trinh-Duc, Remi Ta…
James Harrington
14 Feb 2020, 5:27
The ProD2 adjustment the RFU Championship could make
Former Bath prop Kane Palma-Newport, who is currently playing for US Colomiers in France’s second division, has weighed in on th…
Josh Raisey
13 Feb 2020, 14:33
Racing line up Aussie replacement for Nakarawa whose compensation case has encountered a hitch
The Fijian, who has joined Glasgow, is seeking hefty compensation from the Parisian club who have been looking to Super Rugby to r…
Online Editors
12 Feb 2020, 8:16
Shock as Castres hooker gets away with lenient ban for heinous clear-out
In the most recent round of Top 14 action, Marc-Antoine Rallier saw red for a hit that was simply despicable in the modern game.
Josh Raisey
07 Feb 2020, 8:01
French international punished for trying to feign injury
The incident featuring Geoffrey Doumayrou was handled brilliantly by referee Thomas Charabas in La Rochelle’s contest with Montp…
Josh Raisey
06 Feb 2020, 9:12
Joe Schmidt will temporarily return to coaching next week - reports
In the same week Bath moved quickly to dismiss reports that the New Zealander was asked to become their head coach, it has emerged…
Online Editors
29 Jan 2020, 11:36
Matsushima's confirmed switch from Japan to France could be a game-changer
It's a rare enough occurrence for a Japanese player at the top of his game to take his chances in the Top 14, but there are hopes …
Josh Raisey
28 Jan 2020, 12:56
French leaders Lyon reveal first signings for next season
The ambitious club have stolen a march in this season's Top 14 but their miserable Heineken Champions Cup experience highlighted t…
Online Editors
28 Jan 2020, 5:15
Fiji unveil Montpellier boss Vern Cotter as new head coach
Fiji have announced Montpellier boss Vern Cotter as the successor to former head coach John McKee.
Online Editors
27 Jan 2020, 23:31
Changing room photo suggests Finn Russell doing just fine despite Scottish dramas
A post-match changing room photograph taken following Racing 92 hammering of 27 - nil hammering of Castres suggests exiled Scottis…
Ian Cameron
26 Jan 2020, 5:45
Greig Laidlaw to make ProD2 switch gamble - reports
Former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw is set to leave Clermont Auvergne for a switch to the ProD2 with Perpignan - according to re…
Online Editors
25 Jan 2020, 10:46
Zebo's cryptic Finn Russell Tweets are perlexing the internet
Simon Zebo, club teammate of Scotland’s Finn Russell, has left a series of cryptic Tweets after the Scot returned to Racing 92 f…
Josh Raisey
23 Jan 2020, 12:25
Castres prop banned until May for one of two alleged attacks on fellow frontrows
Castres Olympique’s Hans N’Kinsi has been suspended for 12 weeks, and has had a citing complaint against him dismissed, follow…
Online Editors
22 Jan 2020, 15:44
RFU chief has his say on whether England could pick Saracens players if they move to France
With recruitment by Premiership teams for next season well underway, Saracens players could move to France in the search of a cont…
Online Editors
21 Jan 2020, 13:59
Philippe Saint-Andre has beaten Michael Cheika to the top job at Montpellier
Post-World Cup speculation heavily linked the Australian to a move to the Top 14, but Montpellier president Mohed Altrad has confi…
Online Editors
21 Jan 2020, 7:05
Nathan Hines' radical idea to lighten the load on his Top 14 players
With Montpellier suffering from an academy depleted under former coach Jake White, their current assistant has a suggestion to bet…
James Harrington
18 Jan 2020, 4:23
Worcester out of Europe after Castres fightback as Dragons earn last-eight spot
Worcester crashed out of the European Challenge Cup after squandering a 27-12 lead against Castres at Sixways.
Online Editors
17 Jan 2020, 18:12
French club poised to sign Japanese RWC star Kotaro Matsushima - reports
The 26-year-old-shot to prominence at the recent World Cup, scoring five tries and finishing joint second on tournament’s overal…
Online Editors
15 Jan 2020, 4:55
Savea set for Toulon exit - reports
French media are reporting that Toulon are not planning on offering the former All Black a new contract when his current deal expi…
Online Editors
13 Jan 2020, 10:42
Kiwis in Europe: Clermont's ex-Pat contingent continue blistering run in Champions Cup
Elsewhere in the Champions Cup, a Jackson Willison try was not enough for Bath, which fell 19-25 at home to Harlequins.
Campbell Burnes
12 Jan 2020, 17:24
Painkiller addiction prolific amongst players according to former Super Rugby halfback
A former Super Rugby star has claimed the number of players who are addicted to pain killers has become an "epidemic".
Online Editors
11 Jan 2020, 15:13
How a snub by England assistant Mitchell gave birth to Brock James' stellar French club career
It was 2006 when the former All Blacks boss cruelly told James he wasn't good enough for the Western Force, a decision that sparke…
Online Editors
10 Jan 2020, 8:33
Toulon owner follows through on Rhys Webb threat
In the first fixture since Toulon owner Bernard Lemaitre suggested Ospreys-bound scrumhalf Rhys Webb will not play for the club ag…
Josh Raisey
09 Jan 2020, 10:05
Size differences in No8s across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14
RugbyPass assesses the heights and weights of the various No8s that started league matches in France, England and the PRO14 last w…
Josh Raisey
09 Jan 2020, 9:00
Familiar face fills Saints vacancy caused by Dickens' England age-grade departure
It was November when Saints lost their defence coach to the English under-20s, but they have now recruited a familiar face from th…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2020, 5:57
Toulon star Julian Savea reveals preference between Super Rugby and Top 14
Former All Blacks star Julian Savea has lifted the lid on what competition he prefers out of Super Rugby and the Top 14.
Online Editors
06 Jan 2020, 1:45
Rhys Webb fired by Toulon after explosive comments from new owner
Rhys Webb has been dramatically given the axe by Toulon after the clubs new owner said he would never wear the shirt again.
Ian Cameron
05 Jan 2020, 15:16
Edinburgh eye French league leaders after topping PRO14 Conference B
Edinburgh stand-off Jaco Van Der Walt says his side are heading to France on a high after storming to the top of their Guinness PR…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2020, 7:43
French international Penaud admits to sanction last week by his Clermont boss
It's never easy for a player when he is left out of a team but it is rare that they are very candid about the reason why they have…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2020, 11:27
Fired-up video of ex-All Blacks NYE with Springbok Etzebeth goes viral
Liam Messam and Julian Savea are earning their living these days at French Top 14 club Toulon and they were in high spirits enteri…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2020, 4:00
The future stars of rugby set to dominate in the 2020s
Check out our take on the future stars of rugby as we look ahead to the new decade and the players that are ready to burst on to t…
Alex Shaw
02 Jan 2020, 3:50
It's official: Rhys Webb is back at the Ospreys
The scrum-half had been contracted by Toulon through to summer 2021 but that deal will end a year early so that he can return to t…
Online Editors
31 Dec 2019, 4:27
Former Wallaby red-carded after unthinkable act sparks brawl in Top 14 clash
Former Wallaby Sitaleki Timani has been red-carded in his Top 14 clash for Clermont against Castres over the weekend after committ…
Online Editors
30 Dec 2019, 0:21
Report: Rhys Webb to exit Toulon and return to Wales
Exiled scrumhalf Rhys Webb is set to exit Toulon at the end of 2019/20 season according to reports coming out of France.
Ian Cameron
29 Dec 2019, 9:24
Etzebeth incident: I was wrongly accused
Springbok superstar Eben Etzebeth has opened up about the alleged incident in Langebaan that overshadowed his participation in the…
Ian Cameron
28 Dec 2019, 9:01
Eben Etzebeth outshines Springbok teammate Handre Pollard in impressive Top 14 debut
World Cup-winning Springbok Eben Etzebeth had a far more successful French debut than his South African teammate Handre Pollard.
Online Editors
22 Dec 2019, 22:07
Ben Smith red-carded on Pau debut
Former All Blacks star Ben Smith Pau debut lasted just 51 minutes after he was red-carded during his side's clash with Stade Franc…
Ian Cameron
22 Dec 2019, 12:56
'It's not good enough' - Handre Pollard unhappy as his Top 14 debut for Montpellier underwhelms
Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard has offered a critical assessment after his Montpellier debut in Paris against Racing 92.
Online Editors
21 Dec 2019, 22:23
Look who's back after serving his suspension for that notorious World Cup red card
Sebastien Vahaamahina was widely ridiculed for the moment of madness that cost France dearly in Japan, but his suspension is now u…
Online Editors
20 Dec 2019, 5:40
Handre Pollard's big promise to Montpellier fans ahead of his debut
The Springbok picked up a fractured cheekbone during the World Cup final win but he is now ready to begin his new adventure in Fra…
Online Editors
19 Dec 2019, 8:52
Ibrahim Diarra dead at the age of 36
The Top 14 title winner, who won one France cap in 2008, took ill last weekend in Paris and has now passed away.
Online Editors
19 Dec 2019, 6:16
Louis Picamoles will be out of action until next September at the earliest
The long-serving France No8 arrived home from the World Cup in Japan and called time on his Test career so that he could focus mor…
Online Editors
18 Dec 2019, 5:11
Cheika trail at Montpellier going cold as surprise new favourite emerges to succeed Vern Cotter
Where the outspoken former Wallabies coach will end up next has been a hot topic since the World Cup and it appears he is no longe…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2019, 6:36
Sexton linked with shock move back to Top14
Leinster and Ireland out-half Johnny Sexton is being linked with a shock return to France, with Lyon reportedly keen to lure the 3…
Ciarán Kennedy
16 Dec 2019, 5:30
How Tony Brown kept potential Highlanders bolter from leaving New Zealand for France
Incoming Highlanders assistant coach Tony Brown played a key role in keeping an exciting young Kiwi talent in New Zealand rather t…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2019, 0:13
Size differences in No.7s in the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14
RugbyPass assesses the heights and weights of the various opensides that started league matches in France, England and the PRO14 a…
Josh Raisey
15 Dec 2019, 3:59
Ibrahim Diarra, 36, said to be in critical condition following a stroke
The French player enjoyed a lengthy career in the Top 14 but he is now said to be fighting for his life in a Parisian hospital.
Online Editors
14 Dec 2019, 8:14
'Gutted' - Milner-Skudder won't join Toulon this year
All Blacks star Nehe Milner-Skudder will not join Toulon in 2019 - he has confirmed.
Ian Cameron
14 Dec 2019, 8:09
Nakarawa has cleared out his locker at Racing and decided his short-term future - reports
The world of rugby was shaken up last Friday when the Parisians decided to terminate the contract of the 2018 European player of t…
Liam Heagney
12 Dec 2019, 15:00
15 for 10: Toulon - an all-decade XV
The RugbyPass series crosses the Channel for a look at a French club that came from nowhere to dominate the European landscape in …
Josh Raisey
11 Dec 2019, 5:29
Departing Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal on his favourite ever signing and what he might do next in rugby
Love him or loathe him, the Mad Mourad era in charge at the French club was always entertaining... now he is leaving he is in a re…
Liam Heagney
10 Dec 2019, 5:40
Leone Nakarawa closing in on a return to Glasgow - reports
Star Fijian lock Leone Nakarawa is reportedly on the verge of a sensational return to his former club Glasgow Warriors, according …
Online Editors
09 Dec 2019, 22:10
Two forgotten talents of English rugby heading home? - reports
Two former Bath Rugby old boys are set to return to English rugby - according to reports from France.
Ian Cameron
07 Dec 2019, 5:12
Super Rugby club emerges as shock contender to sign Fijian lock Leone Nakarawa following sacking from Racing 92
A Super Rugby club have emerged as shock contenders to sign star lock Leone Nakarawa following his sacking from Top 14 club Racing…
Online Editors
06 Dec 2019, 22:03
Nakarawa's sacking has fans of other European clubs pleading for him to join them
With the ball-playing Fijian now kicked out at Racing, fans of other clubs around Europe are salivating at the prospect that he is…
Josh Raisey
06 Dec 2019, 9:35
Racing explain the reasons why they have just fired Leone Nakarawa
With the Fijian star in dispute with the Top 14 club since the end of the World Cup with Fiji, the Parisians have now applied the …
Online Editors
06 Dec 2019, 6:59
Jerome Kaino and Joe Tekori sign on for more at Toulouse - reports
Rugby is supposed to be increasingly becoming a younger man's game, but two veterans keep lighting up the Top 14 week after week.
Online Editors
05 Dec 2019, 11:33
Wandering Scottish half-back Sam Hidalgo-Clyne is on the move again
The 17-times Scottish international has been having a transient time since leaving Edinburgh in summer 2018 with stints in Wales a…
Online Editors
05 Dec 2019, 8:43
Davidson's impressive stint at promoted Brive earns contract reward
It was eight and a half years when the Irishman's coaching career hit the buffers in Belfast, but he has rebounded impressively to…
Online Editors
03 Dec 2019, 14:23
Toulon has officially changed hands
Controversial rugby magnate Mourad Boudjellal has officially sold his majority share in RC Toulon.
Ian Cameron
02 Dec 2019, 10:04
Boudjellal to offload Toulon ownership - reports
Controversial rugby magnate Mourad Boudjellal is set to relinquish his majority share in RC Toulon.
Ian Cameron
30 Nov 2019, 10:27
Bordeaux's ballsy reaction to Radradra's departure: 'No one is irreplaceable'
Losing a marquee player has got to hurt a club but Bordeaux sound relieved that the in-demand Fijian made up his mind early about …
Online Editors
29 Nov 2019, 9:19
'My oh my' - How the rugby world reacted to Radradra to Bristol
Bristol Bears announced one of the biggest signings in recent years on Wednesday, as Fiji and Bordeaux star Semi Radradra is set t…
Josh Raisey
27 Nov 2019, 9:33
Axed England midfielder Ben Te'o belatedly gets his chance to make it big in Japan
The midfielder's dramatic pre-World Cup axing by England's Eddie Jones was a massive story in early August and after a brief stop …
Online Editors
26 Nov 2019, 6:51
Springboks World Cup hero Cheslin Kolbe wants to cap off trophy-laden season with one more major accolade
Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe has identified the title he wants to add to his trophy cabinet alongside the Top 14, Rugby Champions…
Online Editors
25 Nov 2019, 23:51
SAHRC dismiss reports they do not have the evidence to charge Etzebeth
SAHRC have insisted that they have enough evidence to go to the Equality Court over accusations that Eben Etzebeth assaulted and r…
Alex Shaw
25 Nov 2019, 4:14
Bulls bought out by South African billionaire businessman in a highly-anticipated deal
South African billionaire mining magnate Patrice Motsepe has bought a controlling share in the Bulls in a move which could have si…
Online Editors
22 Nov 2019, 21:34
Montpellier successful in appealing salary cap punishment
Under investigation for alleged salary cap breaches in France, Mohed Altrad's club have been largely exonerated following a French…
Online Editors
21 Nov 2019, 16:02
Du Plessis makes mid-season exit from Montpellier
Former Springbok prop Jannie du Plessis has made a mid-season exit from Montpellier Herault in the Top 14.
Ian Cameron
21 Nov 2019, 11:52
20 top South African schoolboys raided by overseas clubs as World Rugby's five-year residency rule drives younger recruitment
World Rugby's change to international qualification by residency is already having an impact in South Africa with Afrikaans newspa…
Online Editors
19 Nov 2019, 17:58
Former England player Joe Worsley is back coaching in France
The former back row's lengthy coaching stint at Bordeaux came to an end earlier this year but he has now landed himself an alterna…
Online Editors
19 Nov 2019, 8:52
The growing value drain on Super Rugby is teetering on starting a death spiral
The flush of private money into the club game will no doubt exacerbate the growing value disparity between the domestic game in th…
Ben Smith
18 Nov 2019, 0:54
'I am done with the Sharks' - 'Beast' Mtawarira considering overseas offers
Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira has confirmed he is considering offers to continue his remarkable rugby career outside South Africa, …
Chris Jones
17 Nov 2019, 17:00
Double World Cup winner Frans Steyn sounds ready to put the farm before rugby
Fresh from creating history as a two-time World Cup winner with the Springboks, the 32-year-old has turned his attention to his cl…
Online Editors
14 Nov 2019, 6:55
Toulon ready to cut their losses on All Black Milner-Skudder - reports
Toulon made a big show last December after securing the signatures of Eben Etzebeth and Nehe Milner-Skudder for the 2019/2020 seas…
Online Editors
13 Nov 2019, 6:55
Racing 92 have finally issued a statement regarding the absent Leone Nakarawa
It has been one of the most bizarre post-World Cup stories, Leone Nakarawa's failure to report back for club duty with Racing, and…
Liam Heagney
13 Nov 2019, 4:50
Heyneke Meyer and his assistants ousted at Stade Francais - reports
Heyneke Meyer and his staff may have coached their last game at Stade Francais after reports from France claim the club is set to …
Alex Shaw
12 Nov 2019, 12:00
A bizarre reason has emerged as to why Leone Nakarawa has yet to report for duty at Racing
It's a month since Fiji exited the World Cup but Racing are still waiting on Leone Nakarawa to report back for duty even though Pa…
Online Editors
08 Nov 2019, 5:11
Cheika's Montpellier move set to be fast tracked?
Michael Cheika's switch to the Top 14 and Montpellier could come sooner than expected - RugbyPass understands
Ian Cameron
08 Nov 2019, 4:38
Nakawara case raises awkward questions about Top14's treatment of PI players
Racing 92 lock Leone Nakawara’s no-show to training since the Rugby World Cup is one story this week that could have major conse…
Josh Raisey
06 Nov 2019, 16:15
Leone Nakarawa is potentially facing the sack at Racing 92
Leone Nakarawa is one of the world's most coveted second rows but his club Racing 92 are reportedly furious that he has yet to rep…
Liam Heagney
05 Nov 2019, 5:03
World Cup winner Reinach on Montpellier's radar - reports
Cobus Reinach is the latest South African to catch the eye of Montpellier, with the French club reportedly prepared to make the No…
Alex Shaw
05 Nov 2019, 2:46
Ben Tameifuna ordered to lose weight after returning to Racing at 25 stone
According to reports in France, Tameifuna tipped the scales at 160kg when he reported back to the Racing 92 after the Rugby World …
Online Editors
04 Nov 2019, 9:38
Ntamack the obvious candidate for Breakthrough Player of the Year as Wainwright misses out
World Rugby have announced the three-man shortlist for the Breakthrough Player of the Year award and French talent Romain Ntamack …
Alex Shaw
30 Oct 2019, 11:03
Michael Cheika linked with new coaching gig
Outgoing Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has been freshly linked with a move back to France to take over as Montpellier's director …
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 23:10
Thomas Ramos, who left the World Cup last week due to an ankle injury, could line up in the Top 14 this weekend
Thomas Ramos, who last week was replaced in France's Rugby World Cup squad because of injury, is set to be named to play for Stade…
Tom Vinicombe
11 Oct 2019, 0:58
Former England international Steffon Armitage to join Biarritz
Former London Irish and Toulon standout Steffon Armitage, who was found guilty of sexual assault in September, has joined Biarritz…
Alex Shaw
09 Oct 2019, 11:23
Fijian rugby player who assaulted woman in France facing deportation
Jolame Lawebuka, 20, admitted to sexually assaulting a 40-year-old woman in the steets of Nevers after leaving a nightclub.
Online Editors
02 Oct 2019, 8:43
Stade Francais punish South African Hendre Stassen for his positive drugs test
Stade Francais has applied the ultimate sanction to Hendre Stassen, sacking the South African after he tested positive for a banne…
Online Editors
27 Sep 2019, 11:51
Namibian prop Johannes Coetzee wants to give Frans Steyn 'a nice greeting, maybe in a tackle'
For a team that has never won a Rugby World Cup match in 20 attempts, things aren't about to get any easier for Namibia.
Tom Vinicombe
25 Sep 2019, 20:54
Former England international Steffon Armitage faces sexual assault suspended sentence
Five-times capped England back rower Steffon Armitage has been found guilty of sexual assault in France and faces a six-month susp…
Alex Shaw
23 Sep 2019, 11:53
The All Blacks World Cup Exiles XV
We present a XV showcasing New Zealand's best of the rest of who will be watching the World Cup from home.
Alex McLeod
14 Sep 2019, 2:21
Toulon name stunning team line-up for Lyon despite World Cup drain
There may be a raft of players absent from the Top 14 with the World Cup only two weeks away, but there is still no lack in class …
Josh Raisey
07 Sep 2019, 5:10
Josh Strauss lands short-term Top 14 deal after Scotland RWC axe
With back row being a position of riches for Gregor Townsend's Scotland, Josh Strauss found himself at a loose end after failing t…
Online Editors
05 Sep 2019, 11:34
Aaron Cruden no joke(r) for Montpellier
The 2019-20 season of the Top 14 is well underway in France, with plenty of New Zealanders in the thick of the action.
Campbell Burnes
01 Sep 2019, 20:15
Aaron Cruden to make surprise Super Rugby return in 2020?
The ongoing battle for first five looks set to continue in New Zealand, with Aaron Cruden now reported to be close to signing a de…
Tom Vinicombe
31 Aug 2019, 18:35
Ben Te'o heading to France as English rugby exit is confirmed
Ben Te'o was a surprising omission from the England World Cup squad earlier this month and the centre is now set to continue his c…
Alex Shaw
21 Aug 2019, 13:31
Discarded Japan star Akihito Yamada keeping faint World Cup hopes alive with French club stint
Discarded Japanese international Akihito Yamada is still intent on making the Brave Blossoms' World Cup squad after signing a two-…
Online Editors
20 Aug 2019, 0:48
Mathieu Bastareaud's post MLR career may already be decided- reports
Mathieu Bastareaud is set for a new adenture in the US come December, but could he have found a long-term home for his return from…
Alex Shaw
19 Aug 2019, 6:57
Meaningless friendlies debate not restricted to Test level as Racing 92 suffer huge injury blow
Gareth Anscombe's RWC-ruining injury has sparked a debate about playing meaningless friendly Test matches, but serious injuries al…
Liam Heagney
13 Aug 2019, 14:08
Bastareaud moves into pack for first game with Lyon
Lyon have made the much-anticipated announcement that new signing Mathieu Bastareaud will start for them this evening against Gren…
Josh Raisey
02 Aug 2019, 7:22
NRL fans already plotting how Radradra will fit into Eels backline
As rumours of the return of Fijian Semi Radradra to rugby league continue to grow, fans of his former club Parramatta Eels are plo…
Josh Raisey
01 Aug 2019, 9:49
Toulon and Racing fined by LNR over salary cap rules
Toulon and Racing 92 have been fined by the LNR in France for an apparent breach of the salary cap.
Online Editors
29 Jul 2019, 12:29
Counting down the top 15 signings in Europe this summer
We countdown the top 15 signings in European rugby this summer, as clubs from the Top 14, Gallagher Premiership and Guinness PRO14…
Alex Shaw
29 Jul 2019, 10:20
NRL club want Semi Radradra as union exit rumours spread
Parramatta NRL coach Brad Arthur says the Eels would be interested in regaining the services of star Semi Radradra if he returns t…
Online Editors
26 Jul 2019, 14:22
'I do not want to do paranoia but I was very annoyed after this salary cap story'
A story about a salary cap investigation was the latest negativity surrounding French big spenders Racing, fuelling owner Jacky Lo…
Online Editors
26 Jul 2019, 12:31
Fans fear the latest doping case is 'tip of the iceberg'
It has been a bad week for rugby's image as Hendre Stassen returning a positive B sample doping test has left fans believing drug-…
Josh Raisey
26 Jul 2019, 10:16
Cruden's revised contract situation at Montpellier opens door to Super Rugby return
Aaron Cruden's future at Montpellier has been much speculated during 2019 and the latest twist - a revised deal at Montpellier - p…
Liam Heagney
26 Jul 2019, 7:18
The 2019/20 Clermont XV - can it compete in France and Europe?
Perennial contenders for domestic and European trophies, how does the Clermont XV shape up for the 2019/20 season? Are they again …
Alex Shaw
24 Jul 2019, 7:10
Joe Tekori's World Cup revelation on Instagram will hit Samoa hard
Due to face heavyweights Ireland and Scotland in Japan at the World Cup, Samoa hoped to have all their stars involved but that hop…
Josh Raisey
23 Jul 2019, 8:58
Positive B sample leaves Top 14 forward facing drugs ban of up to four years
A 21-year-old South African who tested positive for steroid use in Top 14 has now had his B sample tested and is facing a suspensi…
Alex Shaw
23 Jul 2019, 6:35
Two Fijians are the examples for Bastareaud's backs-to-forwards positional gamble
Mathieu Bastareaud's mooted positional switch from backs to forwards at Lyon has become one of the hottest topics of the European …
Online Editors
20 Jul 2019, 5:35
Ex-Lions No8 leads mixed reaction on social media to Bastareaud's positional change
The revelation that midfielder Mathieu Bastaread is to experiment with the No8 role during his loan switch to Lyon has caused quit…
Josh Raisey
19 Jul 2019, 13:43
Bastareaud will be changing position at new club Lyon
Lyon have won the race to sign Mathieu Bastareaud on a short-term deal.
Ian Cameron
18 Jul 2019, 3:16
European club makes a play for under-fire Wallaby Tolu Latu
Tolu Latu's reputation suffered a blow with recent court convictions but while it may have weakened his value in the eyes of Rugby…
Online Editors
16 Jul 2019, 7:59
A potential Toulon XV for 2019/20
Toulon endured a miserable season past for a team of their pedigree. They finished 9th in the Top 14 and performed pitifully in th…
Josh Raisey
15 Jul 2019, 9:45
Bastareaud spotted at Lyon's training facility - reports
A fourth club has been linked to French cast-off Mathieu Bastareaud.
Online Editors
13 Jul 2019, 10:13
Bayonne could field 1032kg pack after supersizing their forwards
Bayonne have bulked up their forward pack with a number of supersized additions.
Ian Cameron
13 Jul 2019, 6:20
South African lock provisionally suspended in France for doping
Stade Francais have had to deal with an avalanche of negative headlines in the past six months, the latest being the provisional s…
Online Editors
12 Jul 2019, 7:58
Heyneke Meyer: 'I am not a dictator'
Heyneke Meyer's time in charge at Stade Francais has seen a lot of upheaval at a club struggling to try and replicate former glori…
Liam Heagney
11 Jul 2019, 13:32
Simon Zebo hosts NFL star at training in Paris
Simon Zebo has a reputation of being a generous character and he embellished this impression this week by volunteering via social …
Josh Raisey
11 Jul 2019, 12:50
Three former Grenoble players sent forward for rape trial
Three former Grenoble players have been sent forward for trial for rape following a night out in Bordeaux in 2017.
Online Editors
11 Jul 2019, 10:29
O'Gara sets off for La Rochelle with farewell tweet for the Crusaders
After two successful years in New Zealand, Ireland's Ronan O'Gara has said farewell to the Super Rugby-winning Crusaders ahead of …
Josh Raisey
11 Jul 2019, 7:30
Meyer to bring in two former Springboks and give under-fire Stade a lift
Heyneke Meyer's first season at Stade Francais was a divisive one and the South African's latest ruse is recruiting two South Afri…
Online Editors
11 Jul 2019, 5:24
Aussie Mitch Lees leaving Exeter for stint in French Top 14
After five seasons at Exeter and a call-up for the England Saxons, Australian Mitch Lees has decided to try out a very different r…
Online Editors
10 Jul 2019, 5:06
Steffon Armitage is leaving France and continuing his career elsewhere
Ex-England back row Steffon Armitage blazed a trail in France playing at multi trophy-winning Toulon but following an injury-hit t…
Online Editors
09 Jul 2019, 14:39
Bastareaud says 'Non' to playing for Toulon for the rest of 2019
The deadline set for Mathieu Bastareaud by Toulon has come and gone with the French midfielder confirming he won't be returning to…
Online Editors
09 Jul 2019, 8:42
David Smith makes surprise move down the grades to prolong his career in France
Samoan David Smith has enjoyed a stellar eight-season career playing in the French Top 14, but he has now made a surprising switch…
Online Editors
09 Jul 2019, 5:20
'Guys are out of jobs' - Rugby agent details the brutal decisions facing players as the market implodes
There is a World Cup thundering down the tracks and rugby has never been more box-office, yet seldom has the life of the rugby age…
Jamie Lyall
08 Jul 2019, 13:40
Nadolo - The Documentary
He's one of the most feared wingers on the planet. A six foot four, 137kg colossus that has run roughshod over countless defenders…
Online Editors
07 Jul 2019, 7:20
Under-23 squads: Super Rugby vs Premiership vs PRO14 vs Top 14
Here's a RugbyPass comparison of the best composite Under-23 squads from rugby's four major club competitions, Super Rugby, the Ga…
Alex Shaw
06 Jul 2019, 11:34
Ronan O'Gara's departing message to the Crusaders ahead of Super Rugby final
Ronan O'Gara's time with the Crusaders is coming to an end. The former Lions test first-five will head to France in a few days for…
Online Editors
05 Jul 2019, 20:26
'French rugby has to crush the world… economically, we are the All Blacks of rugby'
Ahead of a presidential election regarding the governance of the French league, controversial Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal has v…
Online Editors
05 Jul 2019, 5:03
Upwards of a dozen ex-Stade Francais players are taking legal action against the Parisian club
It has been a messy few months for the image of Stade Francais and the latest twist is that a batch of former players are taking l…
Online Editors
04 Jul 2019, 11:16
Snubbed Springboks duo sign for French giant
French giants Clermont have swooped for a pair of snubbed Springboks.
Online Editors
03 Jul 2019, 10:36
He's in a group with South Africa and New Zealand, so he won't be at the World Cup for long
Toulon owner has joked that the Rugby World Cup won't delay Parisse's arrival at Toulon, given Italy are in a group with South Afr…
Online Editors
02 Jul 2019, 3:06
Sergio Parisse signs for Toulon
Italian talisman Sergio Parisse has sensationally signed for RC Toulon.
Online Editors
01 Jul 2019, 9:15
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