Jean-Baptiste Aldigé, a well-known figure in French rugby, will not take long to find a new challenge. After leaving the presidency of Biarritz Olympique last April, the Agenais is preparing to take the reins of Stade Niçois Rugby, promoted to Pro D2 this season.
Information revealed by Sud Ouest, which marks an important turning point for the Côte d’Azur club. Stade Niçois Rugby, recently crowned French National champion, would welcome Aldigé as chairman of the board.
Régis Brandinelli, the current president, would remain in the organization chart by taking the head of the supervisory board. With this reorganization, Nice clearly displays its ambition to firmly establish itself in Pro D2.
Aldigé would not arrive alone in Nice. He would be accompanied by a pool of investors, among whom is Louis-Vincent Gave.
Although he will not occupy a hierarchical position, Gave will contribute to the capital increase of 2 million euros, increasing the club’s budget from 6.5 to 8.5 million euros. A welcome financial injection for Stade Niçois, which wishes to strengthen itself and ensure its sustainability in Pro D2.
Recruitment looks promising with the arrival of Jordan Taufua, 32-year-old New Zealand flanker and Samoan international. Released from his last year of contract by Lyon, Taufua will be a strong recruit who should bring all his experience and power to the Nice pack.
After an adventure in Biarritz that was far from easy, Jean-Baptiste Aldigé undoubtedly hopes that life will be calmer on the Promenade des Anglais. His arrival in Nice will certainly arouse as much hope and expectations as questions among the supporters.
