After their resounding victory against La Rochelle, RC Vannes is preparing to write a new page in its history. The Bretons will take their first steps in the Challenge Cup this Saturday, on the Black Lion pitch in Tbilisi.
Top 14. After the comeback, can Vannes avoid sinking and get back on board?
A European entry marked by a tense context in Georgia, where political unrest adds additional pressure to this already perilous trip.
A historic and delicate journey
Building on their exploit against the Rochelais (23-14), the Vannes residents are having an intense week. However, far from focusing solely on the ground, they must also deal with a complex geopolitical situation. At issue: the demonstrations which are shaking Tbilisi, pitting pro-European citizens against the Georgian government, suspected of pro-Russian connections.
This troubled climate raised questions about keeping the match on site. Finally, the meeting will take place at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium.
-“No overflow situation will be authorized”
The Breton club has taken the initiative to guarantee the safety of its team. In an internal note, revealed by Midi Olympique, President Olivier Cloarec recalled the strict instructions imposed for this trip:
“Any outing or movement during the stay must be reported and authorized by the staff. It is forbidden to bring anyone outside the group to the hotel. […]. Outdoor moments of conviviality will take place in groups, with a return to the hotel at a suitable time. No overflow situation will be permitted. »
This vigilance is part of a context where even the French authorities recommend increased cautionalthough they do not advise against stays in the Georgian capital.
An opponent to discover
On the pitch, the Vannes residents will face a Black Lion team in search of recognition. Regulars in the Europa Super Cup, the Georgians remain on a mixed record in the 2023 Challenge Cup, with a notable victory against the Scarlets. On the Breton side, the objective is clear: to confirm the dynamic initiated in the Top 14 and to shine on the European scene. But the particular atmosphere in Tbilisi and the inexperience of this type of deadline could weigh in the balance.
