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Paris Rugby

Rugby is considered to be one of the most popular sports in Paris, and with teams selling out over 80,000 seats per game, it's hard to argue otherwise. Check out a game or look into some famous Parisian rivalries during your next trip for a taste of this hardcore European sport.

The Game

While often overlooked in the US, rugby is considered to be a favorite past time sporting activity in Paris. In the game of rugby, speed and fitness are more important than size and strength. The game is 80 minutes long with one intermission, but during each half play is continuous. There are 15 players from each team on the pitch, or field, at a time, each with a unique position. The backs, with names such as wing and flyhalf are the players who do the most scoring. The forwards such as the hooker, lock, and flanker are more concerned with getting possession of the ball. One of the most unique parts of a rugby match is the scrum. This is the part of the game when all the players are locked together trying to move the ball along. What is important to remember is that rugby can be confusing at first, but whether or not you know all the rules you will enjoy watching the sport when visiting Paris.

History

Rugby in Paris has an over 100 year old history. The game may have started in England but it quickly took hold in France as well. In 1892 the Union des Sociétés Françaises de Sports Athlétiques (USFSA) organized the first rugby union game between Stade Francsais and Racing Club de France. Both clubs were founded in the 1880s. Rugby in France then evolved to the Top 14, named for the 14 Rugby teams in France that play each other each year. The league is regulated by the French National Rugby League. The league also serves as a qualification for French teams to play in international competition with other countries such as the Heineken Cup. France also participates in the Rugby World Cup.

Amateur

Rugby is a popular sport in Paris and there are opportunities for people of all levels to get in on the action. Amateur rugby is divided into different levels, such as senior, cadet, and juniors. There are hundreds of clubs throughout Paris that one can play in. And rugby is not just for men. Women and girls play the sport as well, although there are subtle differences in rules. If you want to play rugby with people who speak English, try the British Rugby Football Club of Paris, a competitive group of ex-pats who have been playing rugby in Paris since 1923.

Pro

Stade Francais and Racing Metro are the two Paris area based professional teams. The two original Rugby teams in France have a famous rivalry that can be traced back to the 1800s but has been rejuvenated in recent years. While Racing Metro is a great and popular rugby team, they are based in the suburbs of Paris. Stade Francais captures the heart of the city. They are based in the 16^th arrondissement of Paris.

Stadiums

Located in the 16^th arrondissement, Stade Jean-Bouin is home to Stade Francais rugby club. As of 2011, the stadium is undergoing major renovations. Due to the renovations games are now being played at Stade Charléty located in the 13^th arrondissement in Paris. Some rugby matches are played at Stade de France. This stadium seats over 80,000 fans and is the 5^th largest stadium in Europe. It has also been home to the Rugby World Cup.

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Paris Rugby