It was an “anomaly” to be rectified. Since the creation of the French Federation of Rugby Supporters (FFSR) (1) in 2009, the annual congress has never taken place in Toulon, yet the mecca of the oval ball in France. This will be done next summer, with the organization of the fifteenth congress of the FFSR in the harbor. The dates of July 4, 5 and 6, 2025 have been set.
“We wanted this congress to be different, because in Toulon, we are different, and for it to be focused on Toulon training”explains in the preamble Julien Perpère, former president of the Fils de Besagne association who, with the support of the City, is in charge of the event.
One week after the Top 14 final, 300 to 350 supporters of professional and amateur clubs will be expected in the Var for a weekend of exchanges, reflections and conviviality in the purest rugby tradition. “We already thought about beer and wine”laughs Eric Coscia, member of the Fils de Besagne office and patron of the RCT Association.
Neptune and Zenith as tiers
Throughout the three days, aficionados from the four corners of the country will alternate between work periods (2) and festive moments. Various meals are already planned “marked Provence”evenings and activities, as well as visits to the most emblematic places in the city.
Most of the congress will be held, a bit like a symbol, a stone's throw from the Mayol stadium, at the Palais Neptune, while the mezzanine of the Zénith will also be used.
“Last year, in Castres, we found ourselves with supporters from Massy and Strasbourg for example. It’s original and it has a certain charm”smiles Julien, already impatient at the idea of introducing the town to supporters from the four corners of the country.
Please note, however: only the 45,000 members of the FFSR member associations (110 in total) can participate in this event, which the organizers have been working on for almost two years already. The latter are also always looking for volunteers to welcome Toulouse, Basques, Parisians or even Bretons. Kickoff in less than six months.
1. The FFSR's mission is notably to carry the voice of rugby supporters and to defend their interests before the authorities.
2. Round tables will be devoted to themes relating to travel and what happens in rugby stadiums.
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