Welcome to our comprehensive guide to France’s most iconic rugby union stadiums. From the legendary grounds of Paris to the provincial fortresses of the Top 14, this page serves as your essential navigation hub. Whether you’re planning a trip to catch a match or simply want to learn more about the sport’s biggest stages in France, you’ll find everything you need here. Discover each venue’s unique character, its home teams, and the passionate atmosphere that makes French rugby so special.
Bordeaux
- Stade Chaban-Delmas: Home of Union Bordeaux Bègles, this historic stadium is known for its distinctive art-deco architecture. It was originally built for the 1938 FIFA World Cup and is considered a fortress for its passionate supporters. With a capacity of over 34,000, it also occasionally hosts football matches.
Castres
- Stade Pierre-Fabre: The home of Castres Olympique, this intimate stadium is known for creating one of the most intense atmospheres in the Top 14. With a capacity of around 12,500, every seat feels close to the action, making it a difficult place for visiting teams to play.
Clermont-Ferrand
- Stade Marcel-Michelin: The cauldron of Clermont-Ferrand and home to ASM Clermont Auvergne. This stadium, with a capacity of over 19,000, is famous for its “Yellow Army” fanbase, who are known for their unwavering and vocal support. The stadium has undergone several renovations since it opened in 1911 to become one of the most modern and formidable venues in French rugby.
La Rochelle
- Stade Marcel-Deflandre: This stadium is a true rugby fortress and the home ground of Stade Rochelais. It is known for its passionate atmosphere and loyal fanbase, who have a reputation for being among the most vocal in Europe.
Lyon
- Groupama Stadium: While it’s primarily the home of football club Olympique Lyonnais, this state-of-the-art, multi-use stadium also hosts major rugby events and concerts. With a capacity of over 59,000, it is one of the largest and most modern stadiums in France.
Marseille
- Stade Vélodrome: An iconic and multi-purpose stadium, the Vélodrome is home to football club Olympique de Marseille but also regularly hosts major rugby matches for the French national team. Its distinctive, undulating roof and capacity of over 67,000 make it a truly spectacular venue for any major sporting event.
Nanterre
- Paris La Défense Arena: A revolutionary, multi-use domed stadium and the home of Racing 92. This modern arena is unique for its retractable roof, allowing it to function as a closed venue for both sports and entertainment. It also features a massive screen that wraps around the entire pitch.
Nice
- Allianz Riviera: The home ground of OGC Nice football club, this multi-purpose stadium is also occasionally used by RC Toulonnais for their home matches. Opened in 2013, it’s known for its striking architectural design and commitment to sustainable development.
Paris
- Stade de France: France’s national stadium (pictured above), located just outside Paris. This is the main venue for the French national rugby team and a key hub for major international matches. With an all-seater capacity of over 81,000, it is the largest stadium in France and has hosted both FIFA and Rugby World Cup finals.
- Stade Jean-Bouin: Situated next to the Parc des Princes, this stadium is the home ground of Stade Français. Its modern, ribbon-like facade is a defining feature, and it has a capacity of nearly 20,000.
Pau
- Stade du Hameau: The home of Section Paloise, this stadium has undergone significant renovations to become a key venue in the Top 14 league. It has a rich history and a passionate local following.
Toulon
- Stade Mayol: An iconic stadium in the heart of Toulon and the home of the successful RC Toulonnais club. Known for its intense atmosphere and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, it is one of the most passionate and difficult places to play for visiting teams.
Toulouse
- Stade Ernest-Wallon: With a capacity of over 19,000, this is the home of the formidable Stade Toulousain. The club is the most successful in the history of the European Champions Cup, making this stadium a true bastion of French and European rugby.
Last Updated on September 5, 2025 by Sports Tourist