Top 14 Rugby: All You Need to Know

About the Top 14

The Top 14 is the highest level of professional rugby union in France. It is a league of 14 teams, with the top six teams qualifying for the European Champions Cup and the bottom two teams being relegated to the Pro D2.

History

The Top 14 was founded in 1998, replacing the old French Championship. The first champion was Stade Français, and the most successful club in the history of the competition is Stade Toulousain, with 21 titles.

Teams

The Top 14 teams are located all over France, from Paris to Biarritz to Toulouse. Some of the most famous clubs include:

• Stade Toulousain
• Stade Français
• Racing 92
• Montpellier Hérault Rugby
• Union Bordeaux Bègles

Competition

The Top 14 season runs from September to June, with each team playing 26 games. The top six teams at the end of the regular season qualify for the playoffs, which are played over two rounds. The winner of the playoffs is crowned the Top 14 champion.

Players

The Top 14 is home to some of the best rugby players in the world. Some of the most famous players to have played in the Top 14 include:

• Jonny Wilkinson
• Sergio Parisse
• Dan Carter
• Thierry Dusautoir
• Antoine Dupont