This Saturday evening, May 10, 2025, the Orange Vélodrome will once again host the Rugby Club Toulonnais as they clash with Stade Toulousain in what has become a highly anticipated event in the rugby calendar. This gala match, part of the 23rd round of the Top 14, is not only a significant sporting event but also a crucial financial opportunity for the club.
The tradition of relocating this marquee matchup to the Stade Vélodrome was established back in 2009 under the leadership of Mourad Boudjellal, and it has been firmly upheld by his successor, Bernard Lemaître. Each season, the RCT formally requests to the National Rugby League to host this gala match, ideally against Toulouse, during the second half of the championship. This ritual has evolved into a well-oiled celebration that benefits both the fans and the club.
By moving from the smaller Stade Mayol, which accommodates 17,000 spectators, to the expansive 67,000-seat Vélodrome, Toulon significantly boosts its revenue potential. A sold-out match, like the one scheduled this weekend, can generate financial returns equivalent to "four to five receptions from the side of the harbor," according to club officials. This influx of funds is especially vital given that the club recently reported a staggering deficit of "14 million euros" as noted by Lemaître earlier this season.
According to reports from Midi Olympique, the economic benefits of hosting a match at the Stade Vélodrome are four to five times greater than those from a game at Stade Mayol. This financial boost is crucial for the club, especially in a sport where every euro counts.
However, the ambitions of the Toulon management extend beyond just the financial bottom line. The move to the Vélodrome aims to reinforce the RCT's presence in the regional landscape, particularly among supporters who may not have the opportunity to attend matches at Mayol regularly. "It’s about attracting people who might not come to Mayol every two weeks," a club representative emphasized. This strategy is part of a broader initiative to grow the RCT brand and engage with a larger audience.
As the match approaches, excitement is building not only for the rugby but for the overall experience planned for fans. The festivities will kick off at 5 PM, with a DJ set to energize the crowd before the players take the field. Additionally, a spectacular sound and light show is planned to welcome the players onto the pitch, promising an electrifying atmosphere.
Fans can also look forward to a giant tifo being unfurled in one of the grandstands, adding to the visual excitement of the evening. This combination of sporting competition and entertainment is designed to create an unforgettable experience for attendees, reinforcing the match's status as a celebration of rugby in Marseille.
As the Rugby Club Toulonnais prepares to face Stade Toulousain, the stakes are high both on and off the field. Not only does this match represent a critical point in the Top 14 standings as teams vie for playoff positions, but it also serves as a key moment for the RCT's ongoing efforts to solidify its brand and community presence.
With the match day drawing near, fans eagerly anticipate not just the outcome of the game but the vibrant atmosphere that accompanies it. The clash between these two rugby powerhouses promises to deliver thrilling action, fierce competition, and a festive celebration that embodies the spirit of the sport.
