La Rochelle, also known as Stade Rochelais, is a professional rugby union club based in La Rochelle, France, with a distinguished history dating back to 1898.
Club Overview
Stade Rochelais competes in France’s Top 14, the country’s premier rugby competition, and is regarded as one of Europe's elite clubs. The team has a strong following and regularly contends for domestic and European honors.
Historical Highlights
- Founded in 1898, La Rochelle established itself with early regional successes before facing more challenging periods, particularly during the inter-war years and WWII, when the club could not compete.
- In 1941, during the German occupation in WWII, the local rugby league club merged with Stade Rochelais under the guidance of Marcel Deflandre, a key figure who was later honored by having the stadium named after him.
- The club experienced fluctuations between divisions but steadily grew, and since 2014-15, it has consistently competed at the top level in France.
Recent Success
- La Rochelle has had a historic period of success in recent years, notably winning the European Rugby Champions Cup in both 2022 and 2023.
- The club has also reached the Top 14 final multiple times, although it has yet to claim a domestic championship in this period.
- Important figures in its modern success include current president Vincent Merling and head coach Ronan O'Gara, as well as star players like Grégory Alldritt and Will Skelton.
Club Identity
- The club's stadium is named Stade Marcel-Deflandre in tribute to the wartime hero and club president who contributed immensely to its legacy.
- La Rochelle is renowned for its passionate fanbase, community spirit, and steady development through a focus on both player development and long-term planning.
La Rochelle is now firmly established among the giants of European rugby, celebrated for both its sporting achievements and its unique resilience and culture.
