Racing 92 and Stade Francais, two leading French rugby clubs both based in the Paris region, have announced plans to merge.
Racing 92 and Stade Francais, two leading French rugby clubs both based in the Paris region, have announced plans to merge.
The clubs, which have both struggled this season in France's premier Top 14 league, said in statements on their websites that the combination would create a new, stronger club that could enjoy a bigger fanbase in the French capital.
Joe Rokocoko in action for Racing 92. Photo: Photosport
Star players in the Racing 92 squad include New Zealand World Cup winners Dan Carter and Joe Rokocoko, while Stade Francais' top players feature the likes of French international Pascal Pape and Italian Sergio Parisse.
The merger needs to be ratified by the Ligue Nationale de Rugby.
In a joint statement, the clubs said the move needs to be made "to better cope with the challenges of performance and education".
Racing 92 are eighth in Top 14, while Stade Francais are 11th.
