Top 14

Ma'a Nonu has arrived in France for second coming at Toulon

It was September 26 when Ma'a Nonu was revealed to have signed for Toulon and the All Blacks World Cup winner has now arrived at t…

Josh Raisey

30 Oct, 10:35

'You have to give him the ball because every time he touches it, he is dangerous'

Kotaro Matsushima was injured on his Top 14 debut but the Japan star's third appearance last Saturday showed what he can do for Cl…

Online Editors

27 Oct, 6:09

French prop faces court over serious incident in 2014 - reports

The 26-year-old previously spent four days in custody for his suspected involvement in the 2014 incident.

Online Editors

26 Oct, 13:56

Authorities give green light for limited number of fans to attend Friday's Challenge Cup final

The EPCR have confirmed that Friday evening’s final between Bristol Bears and RC Toulon at the Stade Maurice-David will have sup…

Online Editors

12 Oct, 12:44

Date set for new-look pool stage draw for 2020/21 Champions Cup season

The draw will be staged in Lausanne for the third successive year, taking place on Wednesday October 28.

Online Editors

12 Oct, 5:26

Just 3 players who started against Saracens are in Racing's Top 14 team on Saturday after last week's virus outbreak

The entire Racing squad was forced into isolation last week following nine positive Covid-19 tests, but they are now back in Top 1…

Online Editors

10 Oct, 5:58

11 positive tests sees another Castres match face postponement

Castres have been having trouble with Covid for some weeks now and the latest round of testing results could see anther Top 14 mat…

Online Editors

07 Oct, 10:16

Kiwis in Europe: Why New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs still miss Charlie Ngatai

New Zealand rugby, and the Chiefs in particular, still miss Charlie Ngatai, who continued to show his class for Lyon in the French…

Campbell Burnes

05 Oct, 18:10

'Unacceptable' - 130kg Stade Francais prop blasted for moment of madness

Stade Francais prop Luke Tagi was sent off as his side fell to a home defeat to Bayonne.

Ian Cameron

03 Oct, 6:46

'It wasn't a tough decision' - Gabriel Ibitoye explains why he really left English rugby

Despite eyebrows being raised when he decided to leave Harlequins, the reason behind highly-rated England prospect Gabriel Ibitoye…

Online Editors

03 Oct, 5:21

Castres suffer another cancellation two weeks after Leicester call-off

Kicked out of the Challenge Cup a fortnight ago for illness, Castres have been unable to shake the virus and have now had a Top 14…

Online Editors

02 Oct, 4:23

European finalists Racing plunged into Covid crisis - reports

With 9 cases of Covid-19 reported following midweek testing at Champions Cup finalists Racing, their league game at La Rochelle is…

Liam Heagney

01 Oct, 6:09

'Like Sergio Parisse for the forwards, Ma'a Nonu will be the daddy of the three-quarters'

There was surprise last weekend when Toulon signed 38-year-old Ma'a Nonu, but club owner Bernard Lemaitre insists the deal makes p…

Online Editors

30 Sep, 6:09

Aotearoa Rugby Pod | Who makes the All Blacks extended Rugby Championship squad?

This week on the ARP, James Parsons, Bryn Hall and Ross Karl to discuss which 11 players could join the All Blacks in Australia …

RugbyPass

29 Sep, 2:10

'They've got plenty of dough': New Zealand Rugby stars name the European clubs they would 'love' to join

When it comes to choosing an overseas club to play for, there are a few teams that stand out more than others.

Alex McLeod

28 Sep, 20:27

Report: UK firm makes €200m play for share in LNR

A private equity company in the UK wants to enter into negotiations to buy a €200m share in the LNR (Ligue Nationale de Rugby) i…

Online Editors

28 Sep, 5:24

Italian legend Sergio Parisse targetting one last title in his final run with Toulon

The victory means there will be a fourth final outing in the tournament for the great Italian number eight, Sergio Parisse, who tu…

PA

27 Sep, 0:57

CONFIRMED: Ma'a Nonu returns to Toulon

Two years after leaving Toulon, All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu will return to the Stade Mayol - the club have confirmed.

Online Editors

26 Sep, 15:00

Zebo explains the origins of Finn Russell's Racing 92 nickname

Racing 92 fullback Simon Zebo has revealed the origins of Finn Russell's 'white chocolate' nickname at the Parisian club.

Online Editors

26 Sep, 7:12

Racing owner Lorenzetti lets slip the astronomical salary Maro Itoje wanted

Racing 92 had negotiations earlier this year with Maro Itoje and Parisian club president Jacky Lorenzetti has now revealed why tal…

Liam Heagney

24 Sep, 13:18

Leicester contract rebel Noel Reid suspended after red card on Agen debut

One of five contract rebels who left Leicester in July, Noel Reid had a debut to forget for Agen and he has now been suspended for…

Online Editors

24 Sep, 9:43

'No one could hit you harder than Schalk Burger': Liam Messam opens up about the ferocity of professional rugby

Writing in his column on The XV, former All Blacks backrower Liam Messam, has echoed his old teammate Dan Carter's comments from l…

Online Editors

24 Sep, 3:09

30 player contracts expiring in 2021

The financial hit that many clubs have faced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant there have been widespread salary cuts…

Josh Raisey

20 Sep, 13:52

'We want to make sure the next time we come here, we're six points better than we were tonight'

Scarlets coach Glenn Delaney was left wondering what might have been after his side blew two great chances in the final 15 minutes…

AAP

20 Sep, 3:45

'After almost 10 months straight of rugby, I blew out... but I'm down to 146kgs today'

Ben Tameifuna landed himself in hot water with Racing after the World Cup but he now has his weight under control at new club Bord…

Jamie Lyall

20 Sep, 3:40

A Premiership club has reportedly made a 'colossal offer' for Racing's Virimi Vakatawa

Virimi Vakatawa has become one the world's best players in recent times and his Racing contract situation has opened the door to a…

Online Editors

15 Sep, 10:51

Combative Georgian flanker Kolelishvili retires after two year battle with concussion

Ferocious Georgian forward Viktor Kolelishvili has been forced into an early retirement at the age of 30 after losing a two-year f…

Ian Cameron

14 Sep, 11:55

Montpellier confirm extent of Pollard's horror knee injury

Play was stopped for nearly 20 minutes as Pollard received treatment on the pitch before being stretchered off. 

Online Editors

14 Sep, 6:28

'Martin Johnson pretty much said I wasn't good enough' - How being dropped for Lewis Moody changed the career of Steffon Armitage

Former England back row Steffon Armitage says that being dropped by Martin Johnson in favour of Lewis Moody proved a catalyst for …

Ian Cameron

13 Sep, 9:24

'I've read somewhere that I can curl 80kg; I'm not sure anyone alive can do that. But the truth is...'' - Etzebeth

There is a great Eben Etzebeth fable, enshrined in rugby legend, that feeds the narrative of physical freakery and rampant aggress…

Jamie Lyall

13 Sep, 6:16

Video - Cheslin Kolbe steps 3 players in 25 metre dash to the line

Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe showed that the pandemic has done little to stymie his remarkable rugby talents as he cut La Roc…

Online Editors

12 Sep, 15:39

Giant lock beat soldier so badly he needed to drink through a straw for two months

Agen's Victor Moreaux was given a six-month sentence, suspended for two years, and fined €5,000 euro for the incident.

Ian Cameron

12 Sep, 12:11

Pollard hospitalised in France, Beale red carded

Springbok star Handre Pollard has been hospitalised in France following a serious knee injury sustained during Montpellier's loss …

Online Editors

12 Sep, 4:31

Report: Six Nations haymaker thrower punished for mystery indiscretion by MHR

According to Midi Olympique Montpellier prop Mohamed Haouas has been given a warning for a mystery off-field indiscretion.

Online Editors

06 Sep, 11:41

The biggest transfers in rugby union history

While the game may not have had deals struck for hundreds of millions, that does not mean that there have not been some landmark m…

Josh Raisey

06 Sep, 5:22

'Galthie is an amazing coach but there are stories that would leave a bad taste in your mouth'

Former Scottish international Johnnie Beattie has shed light on the inner workings of French national head coach Fabien Galthie, w…

Ian Cameron

05 Sep, 9:30

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Pau

Pau started last season's Top 14 well, but things soon got difficult and it seems they have a lot of work to do if they are to imp…

James Harrington

03 Sep, 9:45

New Top 14 season suffers a postponement before a ball has even been kicked

Getting rugby going again in France is a hardship encapsulated by stricken Stade Francais getting their opening 2020/21 Top 14 gam…

Online Editors

01 Sep, 8:21

Handre Pollard breaks silence on speculation linking him to shock Bath move

South Africa’s Rugby World Cup-winning flyhalf Handre Pollard denied reports Monday linking him with a move from Montpellier to …

Online Editors

31 Aug, 10:54

Former Italy lock Josh Furno pops up in France's sixth flight competition

Not so very long ago he was contesting lineouts against the likes of Paul O'Connell and Alun Wyn Jones in the Six Nations, but now…

Ian Cameron

31 Aug, 7:17

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Agen

There's something about Agen - they have recruited and, on the whole, retained well which must mean they will do better than 13th …

James Harrington

29 Aug, 8:25

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Bayonne

Bayonne will begin their difficult second season back in the Top 14 with lofty ambitions but could find their dreams quickly turn …

James Harrington

28 Aug, 10:05

Toulouse friendly cancelled after player tests positive for coronavirus

Preparations for the 2020/21 Top 14 season next weekend have suffered a setback with the coronavirus cancellation of the Toulouse …

Online Editors

28 Aug, 6:50

Australian lock Cummins checks in at Pau as a medical joker

Steven Cummins hasn't featured for Scarlets since last February and he has now arrived at Pau as a medical joker for the 2020/21 T…

Online Editors

26 Aug, 12:00

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Brive

Brive were worthy returnees to the Top 14 after a single Pro D2 campaign and while recruitment has been limited, there can expect …

James Harrington

26 Aug, 7:17

Clermont become latest French club to confirm positive COVID test just two weeks out from Top 14 return

The club stated that while the individual in question had not been present on the training ground, he had attended a meeting with …

Online Editors

23 Aug, 12:36

The Top 14's radically different approach to social distancing

Images shared on social media from a pre-season friendly between La Rochelle and Toulouse show supporters sitting in groups along …

Online Editors

23 Aug, 10:16

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Castres Olympique

Castres Olympique threw out the old after a forgettable coronavirus-curtailed season and head into the 2020/21 campaign with a new…

James Harrington

20 Aug, 10:58

'Lung lesions' the latest issue as Stade Francais players struggle to shake off coronavirus

It was August 6 when it first emerged that Stade Francais had a coronavirus issue with their squad and the Top 14 club is still st…

Online Editors

19 Aug, 13:58

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Lyon

Some of the new recruits at Lyon this season may be a little long in the tooth but make no mistake, the club is building for the l…

James Harrington

19 Aug, 7:15

Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: La Rochelle

La Rochelle were fifth when the 2019/20 Top 14 season was called off early, so why are we wondering about what might have been for…

James Harrington

18 Aug, 8:05

ProD2 side Colomiers draft former All Black Elliott

Colomiers have secured the services of 34-year-old former All Blacks hooker Hika Elliott, who has been drafted as a medical joker.

Online Editors

17 Aug, 12:40

Wasps fail in 'best efforts to keep' Flament as highly-rated lock agrees to join Toulouse

The highly-rated lock played 16 times for Wasps having joined the senior academy for the 2019/20 season from Loughborough Students…

Online Editors

17 Aug, 12:21

Top 14 2020/21 club-by-club season preview: Bordeaux

Expect Bordeaux to take the frustration of last season out on their opponents this time around, but how well will they handle the …

James Harrington

17 Aug, 3:47

Every country in the world where you can be paid to play rugby

There are plenty of countries where the game is growing, with professional competitions in all four corners of the world.

Josh Raisey

16 Aug, 9:06

Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Stade Francais

A new coach and some restrained, highly targeted, work in the transfer market could work wonders for Stade Francais in the Top 14

James Harrington

16 Aug, 6:03

French rugby hit by extended ban on large public gatherings, Montpellier shut down collective training

Concerns about increased coronavirus cases have led to the French ban on public gatherings of no more than 5,000 being increased a…

Online Editors

11 Aug, 12:38

World Rugby extension of eligibility could open door to fresh player captures

The decision by World Rugby to extend the date of the ending of their three-year eligibility rule could open the door to the home …

Ian Cameron

10 Aug, 13:30

At least three Montpellier stars linked with Gallagher Premiership moves

A number of Montpellier Herault's top stars are being linked with a move to the Gallagher Premiership following on from their amic…

Ian Cameron

10 Aug, 12:04

Report: General manager denies that nearly half of Stade Francais squad have tested positive for virus

Stade Francais have been forced to cancel their next friendly with Brive due a significant proportion of their club testing positi…

Online Editors

09 Aug, 14:59

Rivals want Saracens like punishment for Montpellier, despite huge fine in salary cap case

The noses of Montpellier Hérault's Top 14 rivals has been left out of joint after the club came to an "amicable" settlement in th…

Ian Cameron

08 Aug, 10:10

'No regrets at all': Ben Mowen opens up on decision to quit Wallabies captaincy six years ago

Six years after shocking Australian rugby to take a contract in France in his prime, former Wallabies captain Ben Mowen speaks abo…

Finn Morton

06 Aug, 23:26

Harlequins sign Maks van Dyk from Toulouse on short-term deal

Van Dyk joins Quins having spent the last four years in France, and previouly played for reigning Pro14 champions Leinster.

Online Editors

06 Aug, 9:13

Up to a third of the Stade Francais squad test positive for COVID19 - reports

The squad had recently returned from a training camp in Nice ahead of the resumption of the Top14 season.

Online Editors

06 Aug, 8:48

Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Toulon

The club is in stable situation, and looking to a new, very different, but no less intimidating future.

James Harrington

05 Aug, 6:48

Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Racing 92

Racing 92, the most 'Made In France' team of the French 2020/21 season, will be battling on three fronts from September - the Top …

James Harrington

04 Aug, 10:36

Top 14 club-by-club 2020-21 Season Preview: Clermont

The 2020/21 Clermont squad looks stronger, more balanced and has a back line to terrify even the most organised of defences.

James Harrington

03 Aug, 4:46

Top 14 club-by-club 2020/21 season preview: Toulouse

Head coach Ugo Mola has a return to European glory in his sights as he rebuilds Toulouse in his own image

James Harrington

02 Aug, 9:35

Three players test positive for COVID-19 at single Top 14 club

There's been a setback for the resumption of rugby in France, with news that three players at Top 14 side Lyon have tested positiv…

Online Editors

01 Aug, 12:55

The 2 Premiership clubs Abendanon snubbed to stay in France

Former Bath and England fullback Nick Abendanon has admitted that he turned down two Gallagher Premiership club in favour of a two…

Ian Cameron

30 Jul, 12:39

Agen confirm they have signed Gabriel Ibitoye

Gabriel Ibitoye was tipped to become part of the long-term Harlequins furniture but he has traded the Premiership for a stint at A…

Online Editors

29 Jul, 11:46

Fijian France 7s player who was in Foreign Legion has become Clermont medical joker

From Fiji, Tavite Veredamu came to France at the age of 18 when he enlisted in the Foreign Legion and he has now linked up with Cl…

Online Editors

28 Jul, 5:55

Castres No.8 Tulou pulls out of Beziers move, confirming new Top 14 club on social

Destructive Castres No.8 Alex Tulou will not sign for ProD2 Beziers, as widely reported upon in France.

Online Editors

27 Jul, 8:53

Jamie Cudmore has labelled the French the black sheep of the rugby world

Ex-second row enforcer Jamie Cudmore is now coaching in Canada but he isn't letting go of his frightening concussion experiences a…

Online Editors

25 Jul, 9:27

Springboks second row Eben Etzebeth has extended his contract at Toulon

Eben Etzebeth arrived in Toulon last November after winning the World Cup with South Africa with a view to spending just two years…

Online Editors

24 Jul, 5:39

Rugby player (19) dies in France after being struck down by rare illness during training

USBPA Rugby in France have confirmed the death of 19-year-old prop Nicolas Gigot, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday m…

Online Editors

18 Jul, 16:29

A star-studded Top 14 'new entrants' XV

While broadly speaking clubs across Europe have tightened their belts over the course of a locked-down 2020, the Top 14 have manag…

Ian Cameron

18 Jul, 11:07

Opening weekend repeat of 2019 final catches the eye as 2020/21 Top 14 fixtures released

Toulouse vs Clermont will headline the return of club action in France on the weekend of September 5 after the 2020/21 Top 14 fixt…

Online Editors

16 Jul, 9:07

A little-known Ealing academy graduate has just signed for Toulon

Having spotted his academy talent, three-time Heineken Cup Champions Toulon have activated a release clause in the Ealing contract…

Online Editors

14 Jul, 9:24

Disaster for Beziers as takeover deal falls through and club threatened with relegation

The UAE investors at the centre of a bid to takeover of Beziers have pulled out after the DNACG rejected their approach, ending th…

Ian Cameron

13 Jul, 12:15

Billionaire Beziers buyout: All not well at a 'tense' club claims coach

The head coach of Beziers says that the future of the club is bleak if its much-touted buyout does not go ahead.

Ian Cameron

12 Jul, 13:37

Former England fullback Nick Abendanon to stay in France after signing for ProD2 side

Former England fullback Nick Abendanon will be staying in France after all, with official confirmation of a two-year deal being re…

Ian Cameron

11 Jul, 16:53

Noel Reid the third of the Leicester 5 to secure a new club

Irish centre Noel Reid appears to be the third of the Leicester five to secure a new employer, according to reports emanating from…

Ian Cameron

11 Jul, 16:04

Springbok Lionel Mapoe signs for ambitious Nationale side

Former Springbok Lionel Mapoe is the latest player to take up a contract for a Federale 1 team. Nice have the signed the former Li…

Ian Cameron

11 Jul, 10:47

Clermont take to Instagram to celebrate arrival of new signing Matsushima

Six months after it was confirmed he would switch from Top League to Top 14, Japan winger Kotaro Matsushima has arrived in Clermon…

Josh Raisey

10 Jul, 13:33

France-bound Wallaby still gunning for international matches

Matt Philip isn't turning his back on Australian rugby with his move to France but is doing it to improve his chances of becoming …

AAP

07 Jul, 18:03

Remy Grosso has returned to where it all started for him in France

Last capped in June 2018, France winger Remy Grosso earned his stripes in the professional ranks at Lyon, spending five seasons th…

Online Editors

07 Jul, 7:42

Hawke's Bay cult figure and Super Rugby title winner returns to the Magpies for 2020 season

Sona Taumalolo, the prop who came so close to topping the 2012 Super Rugby try-scoring charts with 9 to his name, is making a retu…

Online Editors

02 Jul, 19:30

The early favourite to sign Manu Tuilagi, and why Gatland may have a say in it

Since the confirmation of the departure of Manu Tuilagi from Leicester Tigers, speculation has been rife as to which club the Engl…

Ian Cameron

02 Jul, 14:21

Beziers provide update on their potential billionaire takeover

An important update has been given today on the potential billionaire takeover of French rugby club Béziers. A report today conf…

Online Editors

02 Jul, 11:24

REPORT: French media claim Courtney Lawes 'in advanced' talks with ProD2 big spenders

French media are claiming that England lock Courtney Lawes is in advanced talks with nouveau riche ProD2 side Beziers.

Ian Cameron

28 Jun, 16:04

Billionaire investors' takeover of Beziers expected 'in the next few days' after Paris meeting

The takeover of AS Béziers Hérault by billionaire UAE investors is set to go ahead 'in the next few days' according to the ProD2…

Ian Cameron

28 Jun, 13:46

Welsh and All Black stars linked to France's next super-rich club - reports

All Blacks star Beauden Barrett and Wales sharpshooter Dan Biggar and among two names linked with what many are touting as France'…

Ian Cameron

28 Jun, 5:09

Tyler Ardron's time with the Chiefs comes to an end

The Chiefs will bid farewell to versatile Canadian forward Tyler Ardron at the end of June.

Online Editors

27 Jun, 2:27

France's Section Paloise announce the signing of Chiefs midfielder, Wallabies lock and Fijian sevens rep

The Pau rugby club in France has announced a number of key signings for the coming season, including Chiefs midfielder Tumua Manu.

Online Editors

27 Jun, 1:18

The average height and weight of pro-rugby players by position in Europe

Within each nation, the league is often a bellwether of how its representative team plays, as it is often the platform in which pl…

Josh Raisey

26 Jun, 11:31

How the heights and weights of full-backs compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14

What these stats do is help reveal the lack of variation among full-backs within and between leagues in Europe compared to most ot…

Josh Raisey

24 Jun, 14:10

Confirmed: Kurtley Beale departs Waratahs with immediate effect

The NSW Waratahs can confirm that Kurtley Beale will not return for Super Rugby AU, after being released from the remainder of his…

Online Editors

22 Jun, 23:40

The average height and weight of fly-halves in Europe

The increase in the size of rugby players over the past thirty years is plain to see, and something that is substantial.

Josh Raisey

21 Jun, 13:05

Reports: Wallabies star set for early exit from club, will skip Super Rugby AU

Wallabies fullback Kurtley Beale is set to make an early exit from the Waratahs before he begins his career with the Racing 92 clu…

Online Editors

20 Jun, 18:17

Lyon confirm six new signings, including Super Rugby contract rebel Rodda

At a media conference on Wednesday, Lyon president Yann Roubert presented six new signings for the 2020/21 season - including Reds…

Online Editors

17 Jun, 6:26

Potential conflict of interest means we could soon be seeing less of Altrad at Montpellier

Outspoken Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad faces having to curb his enormous influence at the Top 14 club due to a potential conflic…

Online Editors

16 Jun, 7:40

World Rugby to vote on completing 2020 season, further talks on new global calendar to be held

Presidents and representatives from both hemispheres took part in an online forum which looked at creating a new unified global ru…

Ciarán Kennedy

15 Jun, 14:12

New global calendar up for discussion as international and club bosses set for major World Rugby meeting

A number of proposals surrounding the global rugby calendar are set to be discussed during an online forum hosted by World Rugby o…

Online Editors

15 Jun, 7:28

How the heights and weights of wingers compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14

Variation shines when comparing early January wingers across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14, Montpellier fielding players with …

Josh Raisey

14 Jun, 7:00

Blair Connor has retired with immediate effect at the age of 31

Australian Blair Connor has been at Bordeaux since 2010 and although contracted for next season, he has retired at just the age of…

Online Editors

12 Jun, 7:52

Ex-All Black Toeava one of 3 new Toulon signings, French skipper Ollivon and Parisse among 11 contract extensions

Patrice Collazo has been busy planning for 2020/21 at Toulon, signing ex-All Black Toeava and keeping French skipper Ollivon and v…

Online Editors

12 Jun, 6:16

Lopeti Timani facing suspended sentence following brawl outside French nightclub

Wallaby Lopeti Timani, the 29-year-old La Rochelle back row, was prosecuted for “violence with a weapon” outside a French nigh…

Online Editors

09 Jun, 5:05

Confirmed: Lozowski heading to France despite signing new Saracens contract

Lozowski will spend next season on loan with Top14 side Montpellier before returning to Saracens for the 2021/22 season.

Ciarán Kennedy

08 Jun, 8:18

Former All Black Taylor sacked by Pau after walking out on club

Former All Blacks standoff Tom Taylor has been sensationally sacked by Top 14 side Pau, for going AWOL from the club during the lo…

Ian Cameron

07 Jun, 7:22

Montpellier sign French international Rattez

Montpellier have confirmed the signing of French international wing Vincent Rattez ahead of the 2020/2021 season.

Ian Cameron

06 Jun, 11:15

Highly-rated Kremer the latest Jag to be linked with Top 14

Pumas forward Marcos Kremer is the latest Jaguares player to be linked with a move to France and the Top 14.

Ian Cameron

06 Jun, 8:02

Title-winning Gonzalo Quesada is back in charge at Stade Francais

Gonzalo Quesada last year guided the Buenos Aires-based Jaguares to a first-ever Super Rugby final, but he has now been tempted to…

Online Editors

06 Jun, 5:11

The good, bad and ugly: 10 All Blacks who came back to New Zealand like Dan Carter did

It's been five years since Dan Carter last played professional rugby in New Zealand, so how could he pan out after stints in Franc…

Alex McLeod

06 Jun, 0:43

Emiliano Boffelli could be first to land big contract after Jags suggest players leave

Pumas utility back Emiliano Boffelli could be the first of the Jaguares stars to land a big overseas contract, after the Super Rug…

Online Editors

01 Jun, 14:19

The average weight and height of loosehead props in Europe

RugbyPass looks at the weight and height of loosehead props across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14 to see how the leagues’ No1…

Josh Raisey

01 Jun, 12:20

Bath centre Willison signs for Soyaux Angoulme

Bath centre Jackson Willison has signed for Soyaux Angoulême in the ProD2, the club have confirmed. A powerful, dynamic inside ce…

Online Editors

31 May, 11:09

Toulouse to re-create the tallest engine-room pairing in history of rugby by re-uniting giant twins

Toulouse are set to re-create the biggest locking partnership in the history of the game by re-uniting two gigantic Australian twi…

Ian Cameron

30 May, 7:03

Date set for global calendar summit that could change the rugby schedule forever - report

Following talks between Six Nations and SANZAAR, a follow-up is now scheduled for Dublin that includes Premiership, Top 14, PRO14 …

Online Editors

30 May, 5:20

The Top 14's latest Fiji signings in talks to keep Olympic 7s dream alive

Fiji pair Tuimaba and Botitu have secured deals in the Top 14, but they are hoping for a compromise to release them for Olympics 7…

Chris Jones

29 May, 13:00

Troubled Izaia Perese back in union after securing Top 14 deal

Izaia Perese was on Michael Cheika’s Wallabies radar before he switched to NRL… now after a drugs charge, he is back in union …

Online Editors

29 May, 9:29

Fijian Tuicuvu among list of 5 players in at Davidson's Brive

It was May 2 when Brive announced that 10 players would leave… the Top 14 club have now recruited 5 replacements, including Fiji…

Online Editors

29 May, 8:42

'If you kick your goals and you put your team in the right parts of the field, everyone loves you over here'

In 2018, former Blues and Hurricanes playmaker made the decision to leave NZ and link up with La Rochelle in France. It's a move t…

Tom Vinicombe

27 May, 22:17

Kolbe and co hit as Toulouse become 3rd Top 14 club to announce 2020/21 season pay cuts

With the remainder of the 2019/20 Top 14 season cancelled, Toulouse have agreed on a budget for 2020/21 that includes a pay cut fo…

Online Editors

27 May, 11:52

World Champion Springboks set to return to the field sooner rather than later

Some of South Africa’s World Cup winners will be back on the field in a matter of weeks.

Online Editors

23 May, 17:11

French flyhalf Remi Tales blows 'final whistle' on career

French 10 Remi Tales has called time on his 16-year-long professional rugby career at the age of thirty six.

Online Editors

23 May, 15:19

How the heights and weights of hookers compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14

Cultural norms shine through when comparing hookers across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14, but there is still a model of what s…

Josh Raisey

22 May, 14:10

'Du Toit interests me': Montpellier's Altrad talks PSDT and negotiations with Folau

Two household rugby names, Pieter-Steph du Toit and Israel Folau, were recently linked to Montpellier… the French club’s owner…

Online Editors

22 May, 5:56

What will Lyon do with Bastareaud?: 'He has the potential to become a very good No8'

Back in Top 14 after his flirtation with Major League Rugby was cut short, the speculation has started on which position Bastareau…

Online Editors

22 May, 5:46

The 10 best value European rugby transfers for 2020/21

Big-name European rugby signings catch the eye and grab column inches, but it is often less-heralded transfers that end up making …

Alex Shaw

20 May, 13:57

Steyn's canvassing counts for nought as Montpellier keep du Plessis

Frans Steyn had hoped his lobbying might convince Bismarck du Plessis to follow him home from Montpellier but it hasn't worked out…

Online Editors

20 May, 9:59

'You can play up to 32 games a year and it's just mental': Colin Slade explains why the Top 14 is on a completely different level to Super Rugby

Exclusive: Colin Slade spent almost half a decade slogging it out in the turgid conditions of France's Top 14 and will now turn hi…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May, 2:19

Greig Laidlaw posts 'crazy times' farewell after three years at Clermont

Leaving Clermont is proving emotional even though it was long expected that ex-Scotland skipper Laidlaw would move on at the end o…

Josh Raisey

19 May, 13:47

Carl Fearns is staying in France after agreeing Pro D2 deal with ex-England scrum-half

With his five-year stint over at Top 14 Lyon, ex-Bath back row Carl Fearns will hook up with former England scrum-half Richard Hil…

Liam Heagney

19 May, 8:46

'I've never told this story before - I don't even think my Mrs knows'

As a little boy, Joseph Dweba would beg his parents for rugby boots, pleading for the most basic, mundane essentials that his frie…

Jamie Lyall

18 May, 14:48

Ex-All Blacks centre Saili swaps Harlequins for Biarritz

Harlequins centre and former All Black Francis Saili will be plying his trade in the ProD2 next season after agreeing to join Biar…

Online Editors

17 May, 14:53

'It's a shame it ends like this' - Ex-All Black Chris Masoe on his Racing axing

Chris Masoe moved into a defence coach role after finishing as a player at Racing in 2016/17, but that association ended earlier t…

Online Editors

16 May, 5:33

Former Wallabies flanker Liam Gill departs French club Lyon

Former Wallabies flanker Liam Gill has left Lyon after three seasons with the club, making a potential return to Super Rugby possi…

Online Editors

16 May, 1:28

Concealed injuries and the luckiest break in the world: The almost unbelievable, untold story of Karl Tu'inukuafe

Exclusive: Everybody knows the basic tale of the bouncer who was called into the Chiefs squad in 2018 and made his All Blacks debu…

Tom Vinicombe

15 May, 18:53

The reason France-bound Dillyn Leyds is gutted to be leaving the Stormers

Stormers coach John Dobson revealed this week that Dillyn Leyds has played his final match for the club before a move to La Rochel…

Josh Raisey

15 May, 11:21

Israel Folau has turned down the chance to switch from league into the Top 14

Rugby league’s Catalan Dragons gave Israel Folau the chance to restart his career after his sacking by Rugby Australia and he ha…

Online Editors

14 May, 13:34

Bordeaux-Begles confirm the signing of one of the biggest props the world's ever seen

Bordeaux-Begles have confirmed the signing of two formidable front-rowers for next season, the French Top 14 club said on Tuesday.

Online Editors

14 May, 1:24

Julian Savea unsure of post-Toulon destination: 'It could be another franchise, it could be Japan, it could be the NZ Warriors'

54-cap All Blacks wing and Hurricanes centurion Julian Savea is heading back to New Zealand and could be back on the pitch in the …

Online Editors

13 May, 17:11

What Ben Smith learned from the sending-off that spear-headed his career in France

Former All Black Ben Smith didn't have the smoothest of starts to his career in France but he certainly learned a valuable lesson …

Tom Vinicombe

12 May, 21:37

Former Wallabies captain calls for scrapping of Giteau Law in wake of Kurtley Beale's offshore move

A former Wallabies captain believes the only way to counter the riches of overseas clubs is to scrap the Giteau Law.

AAP

12 May, 18:10

RFU issue statement amid latest Premiership Rugby club-versus-country fears

Premiership Rugby (PRL) and Ligue Nationale de Rugby (LNR) had demanded they are consulted before any plans are confirmed for the …

Chris Jones

12 May, 6:07

Racing 92 confirm signing of veteran Wallabies star Kurtley Beale

After 13 years of service in Australia, Kurtley Beale will depart for French glamour club Racing 92 ahead of the 2020-21 season.

Alex McLeod

11 May, 18:50

French international Benjamin Fall exits Montpellier after 'complicated' final season

Former French international Benjamin Fall is leaving Montpellier after six seasons with the Top 14 side. Having signed in 2014, Fa…

Online Editors

10 May, 15:41

Aaron Cruden sets the record straight: what went wrong in France and why he returned to New Zealand

Exclusive: After two years in France, Aaron Cruden made the decision to move back home to represent the Chiefs side that he won tw…

Tom Vinicombe

10 May, 2:01

'He omitted a few big details': Toulon fire back following recent Rhys Webb criticism

Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb used a recent podcast appearance to slam Toulon’s handling of him but the French club’s Patrice Col…

Online Editors

09 May, 10:06

Ben Volavola set for Pro D2 after defeat in his Racing battle with Finn Russell

Fijian Ben Volavola has spent the majority of his stay at Racing playing second fiddle to Finn Russell, starting just two matches …

Online Editors

09 May, 6:01

Confirmed: Colin Slade waves goodbye to French rugby and joins Japan's Dynaboars

The two-time World Cup winner headed to the Top 14 following New Zealand's 2015 triumph, but his five-season stay is now over.

RugbyPass

07 May, 8:21

Carl Fearns posts bizarre footage of tussle with stewards, confirms his 'strange' exit from Lyon

Carl Fearns has confirmed on social media that his time at Top 14 club Lyon has come to an end. The English No.8 spent five at the…

Ian Cameron

03 May, 9:52

Scotland outcast Alex Dunbar among 10 players released from Top 14 Brive

The 2019/20 Top 14 season was terminated on Thursday, French officials finally admitting defeat in their quest to eventually resta…

Liam Heagney

02 May, 13:33

'Toulon didn't have the decency to talk to me face-to-face'

Family reasons resulted in the French club releasing Rhys Webb from the last year of a deal due to last to 2021, but they then sou…

Online Editors

01 May, 5:33

'I was on the sideline going, f***, I only retired a year-and-a-half ago and this is ridiculous'

Before we get to the savagery of modern rugby, life in France and with Scotland and the years of graft under the brilliant Vern Co…

Jamie Lyall

30 Apr, 15:11

'Mike Phillips was drunk all the time'

Six-and-a-half years have passed since the abrupt parting of the ways between Bayonne and the ex-Wales scrum-half who played 40 To…

Online Editors

30 Apr, 11:55

French rugby season to be abandoned

The French Top 14 rugby union season is to be abandoned amid the COVID-19 crisis after the league's organisers (LNR) and the club …

Online Editors

30 Apr, 7:11

French hopes of resuming Top 14 season before summer is over suffer fatal blow

The French Prime Minister has outlined how slowly the country will come out of lockdown following coronavirus and that emergence d…

Online Editors

28 Apr, 16:19

How the heights and weights of locks compare across the Premiership, Top 14 and PRO14

RugbyPass has sifted through the size of every starting lock in all the fixtures from the first week of January, calculated the av…

Josh Raisey

28 Apr, 13:40

Building the perfect rugby player: Full-back

What makes for the perfect rugby player? We finish our series on the prototype players with a look at the full-back position.

Alex Shaw

27 Apr, 7:54

The bench press records of 47 elite rugby players

It's a sports' cliché, but the bench press continues to occupy a uniquely macho seat in the pantheon of weight training disciplin…

Ian Cameron

26 Apr, 4:07

Rugby's rich list: The world's highest-paid players in 2020

A list of the 15 best-paid rugby players on the planet has been released, and it features a few interesting names.

Online Editors

24 Apr, 23:26

Bakkies Botha has never forgotten his crude welcome to Top 14 rugby at the bottom of a ruck in Biarritz

The Springbok enforcer thrived on his reputation as a hard man who thought he had seen and experienced it all, but what happened a…

Online Editors

24 Apr, 9:12

Building the perfect rugby player: Outside Centre

Our series looking at building the perfect rugby player moves on to the outside centre position, with examples ranging from Manu T…

Alex Shaw

23 Apr, 9:16

Matt Giteau reveals why his globe-trotting 20-year odyssey is coming to an end

Exclusive: If you’re looking for a quintessential example of the modern-day rugby professional, then you need look no further th…

Tom Vinicombe

21 Apr, 1:23

Building the perfect rugby player: Inside Centre

Our series attempting to build the perfect rugby player moves on to inside centre, where a contrast of styles make it hard to lock…

Alex Shaw

20 Apr, 10:05

It's now official... Bastareaud is back in the Top 14 at Lyon

It was April 1 when it RugbyPass reported that instead of staying on in America, the ex-France midfielder would be heading back to…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr, 8:28

Jamie Cudmore's salty response to French plans to restart the 2019/20 Top 14

Life in France is in lockdown until May 11 at the earliest following the latest coronavirus pandemic restrictions enforced by its …

Online Editors

16 Apr, 4:50

The Future of Rugby: France U23

The latest in the Future of Rugby series looks at France and what sort of U23 XV they could field... the future is bright for Les …

Alex Shaw

15 Apr, 7:10

Biting, eye-gouging and ref abuse: The longest bans in rugby union history

Bans are something that receive a lot of attention these days in rugby, particularly due to how arbitrary and inconsistent they ca…

Josh Raisey

13 Apr, 10:35

Chilling warning for top French clubs facing cash crisis

A leading French rugby official has issued a chilling warning about the financial impact of COVID-19.

Chris Jones

13 Apr, 5:16

French owner issues stinging rebuke to rivals who claim rugby players are generally overpaid

With rugby halted and players around the globe taking pandemic pay cuts, one French club president insists the virus shouldn't bec…

Online Editors

10 Apr, 11:06

Racing admit defeat in bold attempt to sign Maro Itoje - report

With Saracens set for demotion to the Championship over salary cap breaches, Top 14 Racing made a play to sign the England second …

Online Editors

09 Apr, 14:56

The average height and weight of outside centres

While it is hard to perfectly describe what an ideal outside centre looks like, there are still expectations and requirements amon…

Josh Raisey

08 Apr, 12:22

After the pandemic: blood on the streets as a new-look future for French pro rugby emerges

French pro rugby clubs have 'put an absolute brake' on recruitment and are seriously rethinking their finances

James Harrington

08 Apr, 10:29

Super Rugby boss Andy Marinos coy on ambitious Club World Cup proposal

SANZAAR chief executive Andy Marinos has remained coy on plans about a proposed Club World Cup which could involve Super Rugby clu…

Online Editors

08 Apr, 1:21

EPCR confirm talks have taken place regarding new global club tournament

EPCR have responded to comments by French Rugby President Bernard Laporte, who has outlined his hopes of introducing a new Club Wo…

Ciarán Kennedy

06 Apr, 15:26

Laporte outlines plan to replace Champions Cup with a new Club World Cup

The French Rugby President is hoping to be elected World Rugby vice-chairman next month.

Online Editors

06 Apr, 11:55

11 rugby household names who may have unwittingly played their final games

The current coronavirus pandemic has decimated rugby and other sports competitions across the world, leaving many suspended, postp…

Josh Raisey

02 Apr, 10:21

'Nah, that's not him, this is not our guy. This guy is small and fat'

Loni Uhila’s mighty knees trembled as he walked through the door of his family home and came face to face with the father who ha…

Jamie Lyall

01 Apr, 14:38

Bastareaud is heading back to the Top 14 on a two-year deal

The French veteran's recruitment by Rugby United New York made headlines around the rugby world when he agreed to move to America …

Liam Heagney

01 Apr, 7:56

Greig Laidlaw's next stop revealed... and it isn't in France

It was January when it was reported that the scrum-half was on his way out of Clermont following a three-year stay and would be st…

Online Editors

31 Mar, 10:42

The goal-kicking custom that Matt Giteau just can't get his head around

Matt Giteau may have played over 300 first-class professional games of rugby but there’s one European goal-kicking custom that h…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Mar, 1:09

Finn Russell: 'Still, for me, I want to fix things'

The Scotland out-half believes he and head coach Gregor Townsend will have a better relationship following their public falling ou…

Ian Cameron

28 Mar, 11:15

The average height and weight of a Northern Hemisphere inside centre

Of all the positions on a rugby field, inside centre is probably the most diverse. The role and shape of players in this position …

Josh Raisey

27 Mar, 14:42

View from the coronavirus front line: French referee on life as emergency room doctor

31-year-old Top 14 official Thomas Charabas is working in a Bayonne hospital and has spoken to Midi Olympique about his experience…

Online Editors

27 Mar, 6:13

Kurtley Beale has landed a two-year deal in France - reports

The 31-year-old Australian international is currently with the Waratahs, whom he joined after a stint in 2016/17 with Wasps, the E…

Online Editors

26 Mar, 11:43

Stade Francais' generosity provides sharp contrast to threatened Premiership mutiny

Rather than suggest legal action, as is the situation with some players in England after a 25 per cent pay, the Parisian club have…

Online Editors

26 Mar, 7:05

The uncomfortable rugby truth exposed by the global pandemic

Rugby has always been inclined to puff out its chest and tell you just how much it’s growing. In a report by Nielsen Sports in 2…

Owain Jones

26 Mar, 5:25

War of words in France - 'It's not a question of a cockfight or selfish interests of each club'

There has been much commentary in France about how and when the season might resume when the current lockdown restrictions are lif…

Online Editors

25 Mar, 8:46

Nadolo can't wait to form 39-stone partnership with Tuilagi

Nemani Nadolo gets bashful when asked about wiring money to his Pacific Island brethren, as though taking credit for acts of kindn…

Jamie Lyall

25 Mar, 7:38

One French coach's radical solution for completing the Top 14 season

With no date set for the resumption the French league, Philippe Saint-Andre of eighth place Montpellier doesn’t believe the rema…

Online Editors

19 Mar, 12:42

Uncertain times: 'Players aren't sure whether to come home and go up there or stay or what to do'

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the state of rugby around the world has left many New Zealand rugby players with a sense…

Online Editors

17 Mar, 16:38

How rugby can think outside the box and mitigate its losses during uncertain times

Whatever developments take place later in the season, rugby’s popularity will be impacted its decreased presence on TV screens i…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Mar, 23:36

French officials follow PRO14's lead with its Top 14 season

The Top 14 was due to resume next weekend following a break for the closing rounds of the Guinness Six Nations, with Toulouse vs L…

Online Editors

13 Mar, 11:13

Waratahs set for major blow as Kurtley Beale eyed up by French club

The Waratahs are set for a major blow in the wake of reports that Kurtley Beale is close to signing a deal in France.

Online Editors

05 Mar, 19:56

Cheslin Kolbe spotted training with Super Rugby's Stormers

The South African franchise shared a photo on Instagram of the winger clad in their training kit, alongside Jamie Roberts in a ses…

Josh Raisey

04 Mar, 8:01

New Leicester signing Nadolo makes Montpellier promise before summer exit

The signing announcement was made official on Monday after RugbyPass revealed last Friday that the deal was done for the Fijian be…

Online Editors

03 Mar, 11:52

'I've gone from Harlequins to Racing to Lyon to Exeter - four incredible top teams - when I could have been stuck at Scarlets playing for Llandovery'

Sam Hidalgo-Clyne's odyssey of loans, medical joker contracts and short-term deals was a voyage he willingly embraced in a bold qu…

Jamie Lyall

03 Mar, 8:15

Saracens star Will Skelton confirms to Rugby Australia he isn't coming home

Will Skelton has confirmed to Rugby Australia officials that he won't be returning to Australia in the wake of Saracens' salary ca…

Online Editors

02 Mar, 21:24

Skelton to leave Saracens for Top14 - reports

The ongoing fallout surrounding Saracens' relegation from the Gallagher Premiership as a result of salary cap breaches has seen a …

Online Editors

02 Mar, 5:12

Ex-All Black Casey Laulala has left Toulon with immediate effect - reports

The 37-year-old, who last played in the 2016/17 season, had taken up a skills manager post at Toulon after initially dipping his …

Online Editors

29 Feb, 9:14

Date set for Nakarawa to contest Racing contract termination

The Fijian, who has since rejoined his former club Glasgow, fell foul of the Parisians following his late return from the World Cu…

Online Editors

28 Feb, 7:16

Nagusa exits Montpellier with immediate effect, England-bound Nadolo to follow in summer

The French Top 14 club are set to be two Fijians down next season as Nagusa and Nadolo won’t be part of the new Philippe Saint-A…

Online Editors

28 Feb, 6:51

Ex-Wallaby Lopeti Timani given French court date for nightclub bottle incident

French newspaper Sud Ouest have reported that the back row must answer a case relating to throwing a bottle that left a nightclub …

Online Editors

26 Feb, 5:27

Newcastle provide the solution after Toulon's loss of Rhys Webb

The pre-Six Nations exit of the Welsh scrum-half left the Top 14 club with a headache they have now managed to solve by turning to…

Online Editors

21 Feb, 9:28

Vern Cotter granted early release from Montpellier

The French club have a huge Top 14 fixture on Sunday at Toulouse but they are preparing for it minus the New Zealander who has fin…

Online Editors

21 Feb, 8:56

Sevens postponements have Fiji fearing French-based stars won't make the Olympics

Gaining release of some world-class players from their clubs is now tougher as the Singapore and Hong Kong postponements have coun…

Chris Jones

18 Feb, 13:15

The verdict is in on the Kolbe-at-No10 experiment

Speed meant there was never any doubt the 26-year-old was going to cause havoc at fly-half, but there was a huge amount more requi…

Josh Raisey

17 Feb, 8:14

Just one vote stopped former internationals from switching Test allegiances

The chairman of Pacific Rugby Players, Hale T-Pole, has revealed that one of rugby's most discussed potential eligibility law chan…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Feb, 16:55

Cheslin Kolbe to make sensational positional switch for Toulouse

He's known for wreaking havoc on the wing, but World Cup winning Springbok Cheslin Kolbe is set to go into unchartered territory w…

Ian Cameron

15 Feb, 12:52

France and the evolution of the modern fly-half - and the rebirth of a prototype

Historically, France has had a love-meh relationship with its 10s - think Jules Plisson, David Skrela, Francois Trinh-Duc, Remi Ta…

James Harrington

14 Feb, 5:27

The ProD2 adjustment the RFU Championship could make

Former Bath prop Kane Palma-Newport, who is currently playing for US Colomiers in France’s second division, has weighed in on th…

Josh Raisey

13 Feb, 14:33

Racing line up Aussie replacement for Nakarawa whose compensation case has encountered a hitch

The Fijian, who has joined Glasgow, is seeking hefty compensation from the Parisian club who have been looking to Super Rugby to r…

Online Editors

12 Feb, 8:16

Shock as Castres hooker gets away with lenient ban for heinous clear-out

In the most recent round of Top 14 action, Marc-Antoine Rallier saw red for a hit that was simply despicable in the modern game.

Josh Raisey

07 Feb, 8:01

French international punished for trying to feign injury

The incident featuring Geoffrey Doumayrou was handled brilliantly by referee Thomas Charabas in La Rochelle’s contest with Montp…

Josh Raisey

06 Feb, 9:12

Joe Schmidt will temporarily return to coaching next week - reports

In the same week Bath moved quickly to dismiss reports that the New Zealander was asked to become their head coach, it has emerged…

Online Editors

29 Jan, 11:36

Matsushima's confirmed switch from Japan to France could be a game-changer

It's a rare enough occurrence for a Japanese player at the top of his game to take his chances in the Top 14, but there are hopes …

Josh Raisey

28 Jan, 12:56

French leaders Lyon reveal first signings for next season

The ambitious club have stolen a march in this season's Top 14 but their miserable Heineken Champions Cup experience highlighted t…

Online Editors

28 Jan, 5:15

Fiji unveil Montpellier boss Vern Cotter as new head coach

Fiji have announced Montpellier boss Vern Cotter as the successor to former head coach John McKee.

Online Editors

27 Jan, 23:31

Changing room photo suggests Finn Russell doing just fine despite Scottish dramas

A post-match changing room photograph taken following Racing 92 hammering of 27 - nil hammering of Castres suggests exiled Scottis…

Ian Cameron

26 Jan, 5:45

Greig Laidlaw to make ProD2 switch gamble - reports

Former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw is set to leave Clermont Auvergne for a switch to the ProD2 with Perpignan - according to re…

Online Editors

25 Jan, 10:46

Zebo's cryptic Finn Russell Tweets are perlexing the internet

Simon Zebo, club teammate of Scotland’s Finn Russell, has left a series of cryptic Tweets after the Scot returned to Racing 92 f…

Josh Raisey

23 Jan, 12:25

Castres prop banned until May for one of two alleged attacks on fellow frontrows

Castres Olympique’s Hans N’Kinsi has been suspended for 12 weeks, and has had a citing complaint against him dismissed, follow…

Online Editors

22 Jan, 15:44

RFU chief has his say on whether England could pick Saracens players if they move to France

With recruitment by Premiership teams for next season well underway, Saracens players could move to France in the search of a cont…

Online Editors

21 Jan, 13:59

Philippe Saint-Andre has beaten Michael Cheika to the top job at Montpellier

Post-World Cup speculation heavily linked the Australian to a move to the Top 14, but Montpellier president Mohed Altrad has confi…

Online Editors

21 Jan, 7:05

Nathan Hines' radical idea to lighten the load on his Top 14 players

With Montpellier suffering from an academy depleted under former coach Jake White, their current assistant has a suggestion to bet…

James Harrington

18 Jan, 4:23

Worcester out of Europe after Castres fightback as Dragons earn last-eight spot

Worcester crashed out of the European Challenge Cup after squandering a 27-12 lead against Castres at Sixways.

Online Editors

17 Jan, 18:12

French club poised to sign Japanese RWC star Kotaro Matsushima - reports

The 26-year-old-shot to prominence at the recent World Cup, scoring five tries and finishing joint second on tournament’s overal…

Online Editors

15 Jan, 4:55

Savea set for Toulon exit - reports

French media are reporting that Toulon are not planning on offering the former All Black a new contract when his current deal expi…

Online Editors

13 Jan, 10:42

Kiwis in Europe: Clermont's ex-Pat contingent continue blistering run in Champions Cup

Elsewhere in the Champions Cup, a Jackson Willison try was not enough for Bath, which fell 19-25 at home to Harlequins.

Campbell Burnes

12 Jan, 17:24

Painkiller addiction prolific amongst players according to former Super Rugby halfback

A former Super Rugby star has claimed the number of players who are addicted to pain killers has become an "epidemic".

Online Editors

11 Jan, 15:13

How a snub by England assistant Mitchell gave birth to Brock James' stellar French club career

It was 2006 when the former All Blacks boss cruelly told James he wasn't good enough for the Western Force, a decision that sparke…

Online Editors

10 Jan, 8:33

Toulon owner follows through on Rhys Webb threat

In the first fixture since Toulon owner Bernard Lemaitre suggested Ospreys-bound scrumhalf Rhys Webb will not play for the club ag…

Josh Raisey

09 Jan, 10:05

Size differences in No8s across the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14

RugbyPass assesses the heights and weights of the various No8s that started league matches in France, England and the PRO14 last w…

Josh Raisey

09 Jan, 9:00

Familiar face fills Saints vacancy caused by Dickens' England age-grade departure

It was November when Saints lost their defence coach to the English under-20s, but they have now recruited a familiar face from th…

Online Editors

07 Jan, 5:57

Toulon star Julian Savea reveals preference between Super Rugby and Top 14

Former All Blacks star Julian Savea has lifted the lid on what competition he prefers out of Super Rugby and the Top 14.

Online Editors

06 Jan, 1:45

Rhys Webb fired by Toulon after explosive comments from new owner

Rhys Webb has been dramatically given the axe by Toulon after the clubs new owner said he would never wear the shirt again.

Ian Cameron

05 Jan, 15:16

Edinburgh eye French league leaders after topping PRO14 Conference B

Edinburgh stand-off Jaco Van Der Walt says his side are heading to France on a high after storming to the top of their Guinness PR…

Online Editors

05 Jan, 7:43

French international Penaud admits to sanction last week by his Clermont boss

It's never easy for a player when he is left out of a team but it is rare that they are very candid about the reason why they have…

Online Editors

02 Jan, 11:27

Fired-up video of ex-All Blacks NYE with Springbok Etzebeth goes viral

Liam Messam and Julian Savea are earning their living these days at French Top 14 club Toulon and they were in high spirits enteri…

Online Editors

02 Jan, 4:00

The future stars of rugby set to dominate in the 2020s

Check out our take on the future stars of rugby as we look ahead to the new decade and the players that are ready to burst on to t…

Alex Shaw

02 Jan, 3:50

It's official: Rhys Webb is back at the Ospreys

The scrum-half had been contracted by Toulon through to summer 2021 but that deal will end a year early so that he can return to t…

Online Editors

31 Dec, 4:27

Former Wallaby red-carded after unthinkable act sparks brawl in Top 14 clash

Former Wallaby Sitaleki Timani has been red-carded in his Top 14 clash for Clermont against Castres over the weekend after committ…

Online Editors

30 Dec, 0:21

Report: Rhys Webb to exit Toulon and return to Wales

Exiled scrumhalf Rhys Webb is set to exit Toulon at the end of 2019/20 season according to reports coming out of France.

Ian Cameron

29 Dec, 9:24

Etzebeth incident: I was wrongly accused

Springbok superstar Eben Etzebeth has opened up about the alleged incident in Langebaan that overshadowed his participation in the…

Ian Cameron

28 Dec, 9:01

Eben Etzebeth outshines Springbok teammate Handre Pollard in impressive Top 14 debut

World Cup-winning Springbok Eben Etzebeth had a far more successful French debut than his South African teammate Handre Pollard.

Online Editors

22 Dec, 22:07

Ben Smith red-carded on Pau debut

Former All Blacks star Ben Smith Pau debut lasted just 51 minutes after he was red-carded during his side's clash with Stade Franc…

Ian Cameron

22 Dec, 12:56

'It's not good enough' - Handre Pollard unhappy as his Top 14 debut for Montpellier underwhelms

Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard has offered a critical assessment after his Montpellier debut in Paris against Racing 92.

Online Editors

21 Dec, 22:23

Look who's back after serving his suspension for that notorious World Cup red card

Sebastien Vahaamahina was widely ridiculed for the moment of madness that cost France dearly in Japan, but his suspension is now u…

Online Editors

20 Dec, 5:40

Handre Pollard's big promise to Montpellier fans ahead of his debut

The Springbok picked up a fractured cheekbone during the World Cup final win but he is now ready to begin his new adventure in Fra…

Online Editors

19 Dec, 8:52

Ibrahim Diarra dead at the age of 36

The Top 14 title winner, who won one France cap in 2008, took ill last weekend in Paris and has now passed away.

Online Editors

19 Dec, 6:16

Louis Picamoles will be out of action until next September at the earliest

The long-serving France No8 arrived home from the World Cup in Japan and called time on his Test career so that he could focus mor…

Online Editors

18 Dec, 5:11

Cheika trail at Montpellier going cold as surprise new favourite emerges to succeed Vern Cotter

Where the outspoken former Wallabies coach will end up next has been a hot topic since the World Cup and it appears he is no longe…

Online Editors

17 Dec, 6:36

Sexton linked with shock move back to Top14

Leinster and Ireland out-half Johnny Sexton is being linked with a shock return to France, with Lyon reportedly keen to lure the 3…

Ciarán Kennedy

16 Dec, 5:30

How Tony Brown kept potential Highlanders bolter from leaving New Zealand for France

Incoming Highlanders assistant coach Tony Brown played a key role in keeping an exciting young Kiwi talent in New Zealand rather t…

Online Editors

16 Dec, 0:13

Size differences in No.7s in the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14

RugbyPass assesses the heights and weights of the various opensides that started league matches in France, England and the PRO14 a…

Josh Raisey

15 Dec, 3:59

Ibrahim Diarra, 36, said to be in critical condition following a stroke

The French player enjoyed a lengthy career in the Top 14 but he is now said to be fighting for his life in a Parisian hospital.

Online Editors

14 Dec, 8:14

'Gutted' - Milner-Skudder won't join Toulon this year

All Blacks star Nehe Milner-Skudder will not join Toulon in 2019 - he has confirmed.

Ian Cameron

14 Dec, 8:09

Nakarawa has cleared out his locker at Racing and decided his short-term future - reports

The world of rugby was shaken up last Friday when the Parisians decided to terminate the contract of the 2018 European player of t…

Liam Heagney

12 Dec, 15:00

15 for 10: Toulon - an all-decade XV

The RugbyPass series crosses the Channel for a look at a French club that came from nowhere to dominate the European landscape in …

Josh Raisey

11 Dec, 5:29

Departing Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal on his favourite ever signing and what he might do next in rugby

Love him or loathe him, the Mad Mourad era in charge at the French club was always entertaining... now he is leaving he is in a re…

Liam Heagney

10 Dec, 5:40

Leone Nakarawa closing in on a return to Glasgow - reports

Star Fijian lock Leone Nakarawa is reportedly on the verge of a sensational return to his former club Glasgow Warriors, according …

Online Editors

09 Dec, 22:10

Two forgotten talents of English rugby heading home? - reports

Two former Bath Rugby old boys are set to return to English rugby - according to reports from France.

Ian Cameron

07 Dec, 5:12

Super Rugby club emerges as shock contender to sign Fijian lock Leone Nakarawa following sacking from Racing 92

A Super Rugby club have emerged as shock contenders to sign star lock Leone Nakarawa following his sacking from Top 14 club Racing…

Online Editors

06 Dec, 22:03

Nakarawa's sacking has fans of other European clubs pleading for him to join them

With the ball-playing Fijian now kicked out at Racing, fans of other clubs around Europe are salivating at the prospect that he is…

Josh Raisey

06 Dec, 9:35

Racing explain the reasons why they have just fired Leone Nakarawa

With the Fijian star in dispute with the Top 14 club since the end of the World Cup with Fiji, the Parisians have now applied the …

Online Editors

06 Dec, 6:59

Jerome Kaino and Joe Tekori sign on for more at Toulouse - reports

Rugby is supposed to be increasingly becoming a younger man's game, but two veterans keep lighting up the Top 14 week after week.

Online Editors

05 Dec, 11:33

Wandering Scottish half-back Sam Hidalgo-Clyne is on the move again

The 17-times Scottish international has been having a transient time since leaving Edinburgh in summer 2018 with stints in Wales a…

Online Editors

05 Dec, 8:43

Davidson's impressive stint at promoted Brive earns contract reward

It was eight and a half years when the Irishman's coaching career hit the buffers in Belfast, but he has rebounded impressively to…

Online Editors

03 Dec, 14:23

Toulon has officially changed hands

Controversial rugby magnate Mourad Boudjellal has officially sold his majority share in RC Toulon.

Ian Cameron

02 Dec, 10:04

Boudjellal to offload Toulon ownership - reports

Controversial rugby magnate Mourad Boudjellal is set to relinquish his majority share in RC Toulon.

Ian Cameron

30 Nov, 10:27

Bordeaux's ballsy reaction to Radradra's departure: 'No one is irreplaceable'

Losing a marquee player has got to hurt a club but Bordeaux sound relieved that the in-demand Fijian made up his mind early about …

Online Editors

29 Nov, 9:19

'My oh my' - How the rugby world reacted to Radradra to Bristol

Bristol Bears announced one of the biggest signings in recent years on Wednesday, as Fiji and Bordeaux star Semi Radradra is set t…

Josh Raisey

27 Nov, 9:33

Axed England midfielder Ben Te'o belatedly gets his chance to make it big in Japan

The midfielder's dramatic pre-World Cup axing by England's Eddie Jones was a massive story in early August and after a brief stop …

Online Editors

26 Nov, 6:51

Springboks World Cup hero Cheslin Kolbe wants to cap off trophy-laden season with one more major accolade

Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe has identified the title he wants to add to his trophy cabinet alongside the Top 14, Rugby Champions…

Online Editors

25 Nov, 23:51

SAHRC dismiss reports they do not have the evidence to charge Etzebeth

SAHRC have insisted that they have enough evidence to go to the Equality Court over accusations that Eben Etzebeth assaulted and r…

Alex Shaw

25 Nov, 4:14

Bulls bought out by South African billionaire businessman in a highly-anticipated deal

South African billionaire mining magnate Patrice Motsepe has bought a controlling share in the Bulls in a move which could have si…

Online Editors

22 Nov, 21:34

Montpellier successful in appealing salary cap punishment

Under investigation for alleged salary cap breaches in France, Mohed Altrad's club have been largely exonerated following a French…

Online Editors

21 Nov, 16:02

Du Plessis makes mid-season exit from Montpellier

Former Springbok prop Jannie du Plessis has made a mid-season exit from Montpellier Herault in the Top 14.

Ian Cameron

21 Nov, 11:52

20 top South African schoolboys raided by overseas clubs as World Rugby's five-year residency rule drives younger recruitment

World Rugby's change to international qualification by residency is already having an impact in South Africa with Afrikaans newspa…

Online Editors

19 Nov, 17:58

Former England player Joe Worsley is back coaching in France

The former back row's lengthy coaching stint at Bordeaux came to an end earlier this year but he has now landed himself an alterna…

Online Editors

19 Nov, 8:52

The growing value drain on Super Rugby is teetering on starting a death spiral

The flush of private money into the club game will no doubt exacerbate the growing value disparity between the domestic game in th…

Ben Smith

18 Nov, 0:54

'I am done with the Sharks' - 'Beast' Mtawarira considering overseas offers

Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira has confirmed he is considering offers to continue his remarkable rugby career outside South Africa, …

Chris Jones

17 Nov, 17:00

Double World Cup winner Frans Steyn sounds ready to put the farm before rugby

Fresh from creating history as a two-time World Cup winner with the Springboks, the 32-year-old has turned his attention to his cl…

Online Editors

14 Nov, 6:55

Toulon ready to cut their losses on All Black Milner-Skudder - reports

Toulon made a big show last December after securing the signatures of Eben Etzebeth and Nehe Milner-Skudder for the 2019/2020 seas…

Online Editors

13 Nov, 6:55

Racing 92 have finally issued a statement regarding the absent Leone Nakarawa

It has been one of the most bizarre post-World Cup stories, Leone Nakarawa's failure to report back for club duty with Racing, and…

Liam Heagney

13 Nov, 4:50

Heyneke Meyer and his assistants ousted at Stade Francais - reports

Heyneke Meyer and his staff may have coached their last game at Stade Francais after reports from France claim the club is set to …

Alex Shaw

12 Nov, 12:00

A bizarre reason has emerged as to why Leone Nakarawa has yet to report for duty at Racing

It's a month since Fiji exited the World Cup but Racing are still waiting on Leone Nakarawa to report back for duty even though Pa…

Online Editors

08 Nov, 5:11

Cheika's Montpellier move set to be fast tracked?

Michael Cheika's switch to the Top 14 and Montpellier could come sooner than expected - RugbyPass understands

Ian Cameron

08 Nov, 4:38

Nakawara case raises awkward questions about Top14's treatment of PI players

Racing 92 lock Leone Nakawara’s no-show to training since the Rugby World Cup is one story this week that could have major conse…

Josh Raisey

06 Nov, 16:15

Leone Nakarawa is potentially facing the sack at Racing 92

Leone Nakarawa is one of the world's most coveted second rows but his club Racing 92 are reportedly furious that he has yet to rep…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov, 5:03

World Cup winner Reinach on Montpellier's radar - reports

Cobus Reinach is the latest South African to catch the eye of Montpellier, with the French club reportedly prepared to make the No…

Alex Shaw

05 Nov, 2:46

Ben Tameifuna ordered to lose weight after returning to Racing at 25 stone

According to reports in France, Tameifuna tipped the scales at 160kg when he reported back to the Racing 92 after the Rugby World …

Online Editors

04 Nov, 9:38

Ntamack the obvious candidate for Breakthrough Player of the Year as Wainwright misses out

World Rugby have announced the three-man shortlist for the Breakthrough Player of the Year award and French talent Romain Ntamack …

Alex Shaw

30 Oct, 11:03

Michael Cheika linked with new coaching gig

Outgoing Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has been freshly linked with a move back to France to take over as Montpellier's director …

Online Editors

22 Oct, 23:10

Thomas Ramos, who left the World Cup last week due to an ankle injury, could line up in the Top 14 this weekend

Thomas Ramos, who last week was replaced in France's Rugby World Cup squad because of injury, is set to be named to play for Stade…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Oct, 0:58

Former England international Steffon Armitage to join Biarritz

Former London Irish and Toulon standout Steffon Armitage, who was found guilty of sexual assault in September, has joined Biarritz…

Alex Shaw

09 Oct, 11:23

Fijian rugby player who assaulted woman in France facing deportation

Jolame Lawebuka, 20, admitted to sexually assaulting a 40-year-old woman in the steets of Nevers after leaving a nightclub.

Online Editors

02 Oct, 8:43

Stade Francais punish South African Hendre Stassen for his positive drugs test

Stade Francais has applied the ultimate sanction to Hendre Stassen, sacking the South African after he tested positive for a banne…

Online Editors

27 Sep, 11:51

Namibian prop Johannes Coetzee wants to give Frans Steyn 'a nice greeting, maybe in a tackle'

For a team that has never won a Rugby World Cup match in 20 attempts, things aren't about to get any easier for Namibia.

Tom Vinicombe

25 Sep, 20:54

Former England international Steffon Armitage faces sexual assault suspended sentence

Five-times capped England back rower Steffon Armitage has been found guilty of sexual assault in France and faces a six-month susp…

Alex Shaw

23 Sep, 11:53

The All Blacks World Cup Exiles XV

We present a XV showcasing New Zealand's best of the rest of who will be watching the World Cup from home.

Alex McLeod

14 Sep, 2:21

Toulon name stunning team line-up for Lyon despite World Cup drain

There may be a raft of players absent from the Top 14 with the World Cup only two weeks away, but there is still no lack in class …

Josh Raisey

07 Sep, 5:10

Josh Strauss lands short-term Top 14 deal after Scotland RWC axe

With back row being a position of riches for Gregor Townsend's Scotland, Josh Strauss found himself at a loose end after failing t…

Online Editors

05 Sep, 11:34

Aaron Cruden no joke(r) for Montpellier

The 2019-20 season of the Top 14 is well underway in France, with plenty of New Zealanders in the thick of the action.

Campbell Burnes

01 Sep, 20:15

Aaron Cruden to make surprise Super Rugby return in 2020?

The ongoing battle for first five looks set to continue in New Zealand, with Aaron Cruden now reported to be close to signing a de…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Aug, 18:35

Ben Te'o heading to France as English rugby exit is confirmed

Ben Te'o was a surprising omission from the England World Cup squad earlier this month and the centre is now set to continue his c…

Alex Shaw

21 Aug, 13:31

Discarded Japan star Akihito Yamada keeping faint World Cup hopes alive with French club stint

Discarded Japanese international Akihito Yamada is still intent on making the Brave Blossoms' World Cup squad after signing a two-…

Online Editors

20 Aug, 0:48

Mathieu Bastareaud's post MLR career may already be decided- reports

Mathieu Bastareaud is set for a new adenture in the US come December, but could he have found a long-term home for his return from…

Alex Shaw

19 Aug, 6:57

Meaningless friendlies debate not restricted to Test level as Racing 92 suffer huge injury blow

Gareth Anscombe's RWC-ruining injury has sparked a debate about playing meaningless friendly Test matches, but serious injuries al…

Liam Heagney

13 Aug, 14:08

Bastareaud moves into pack for first game with Lyon

Lyon have made the much-anticipated announcement that new signing Mathieu Bastareaud will start for them this evening against Gren…

Josh Raisey

02 Aug, 7:22

NRL fans already plotting how Radradra will fit into Eels backline

As rumours of the return of Fijian Semi Radradra to rugby league continue to grow, fans of his former club Parramatta Eels are plo…

Josh Raisey

01 Aug, 9:49

Toulon and Racing fined by LNR over salary cap rules

Toulon and Racing 92 have been fined by the LNR in France for an apparent breach of the salary cap.

Online Editors

29 Jul, 12:29

Counting down the top 15 signings in Europe this summer

We countdown the top 15 signings in European rugby this summer, as clubs from the Top 14, Gallagher Premiership and Guinness PRO14…

Alex Shaw

29 Jul, 10:20

NRL club want Semi Radradra as union exit rumours spread

Parramatta NRL coach Brad Arthur says the Eels would be interested in regaining the services of star Semi Radradra if he returns t…

Online Editors

26 Jul, 14:22

'I do not want to do paranoia but I was very annoyed after this salary cap story'

A story about a salary cap investigation was the latest negativity surrounding French big spenders Racing, fuelling owner Jacky Lo…

Online Editors

26 Jul, 12:31

Fans fear the latest doping case is 'tip of the iceberg'

It has been a bad week for rugby's image as Hendre Stassen returning a positive B sample doping test has left fans believing drug-…

Josh Raisey

26 Jul, 10:16

Cruden's revised contract situation at Montpellier opens door to Super Rugby return

Aaron Cruden's future at Montpellier has been much speculated during 2019 and the latest twist - a revised deal at Montpellier - p…

Liam Heagney

26 Jul, 7:18

The 2019/20 Clermont XV - can it compete in France and Europe?

Perennial contenders for domestic and European trophies, how does the Clermont XV shape up for the 2019/20 season? Are they again …

Alex Shaw

24 Jul, 7:10

Joe Tekori's World Cup revelation on Instagram will hit Samoa hard

Due to face heavyweights Ireland and Scotland in Japan at the World Cup, Samoa hoped to have all their stars involved but that hop…

Josh Raisey

23 Jul, 8:58

Positive B sample leaves Top 14 forward facing drugs ban of up to four years

A 21-year-old South African who tested positive for steroid use in Top 14 has now had his B sample tested and is facing a suspensi…

Alex Shaw

23 Jul, 6:35

Two Fijians are the examples for Bastareaud's backs-to-forwards positional gamble

Mathieu Bastareaud's mooted positional switch from backs to forwards at Lyon has become one of the hottest topics of the European …

Online Editors

20 Jul, 5:35

Ex-Lions No8 leads mixed reaction on social media to Bastareaud's positional change

The revelation that midfielder Mathieu Bastaread is to experiment with the No8 role during his loan switch to Lyon has caused quit…

Josh Raisey

19 Jul, 13:43

Bastareaud will be changing position at new club Lyon

Lyon have won the race to sign Mathieu Bastareaud on a short-term deal.

Ian Cameron

18 Jul, 3:16

European club makes a play for under-fire Wallaby Tolu Latu

Tolu Latu's reputation suffered a blow with recent court convictions but while it may have weakened his value in the eyes of Rugby…

Online Editors

16 Jul, 7:59

A potential Toulon XV for 2019/20

Toulon endured a miserable season past for a team of their pedigree. They finished 9th in the Top 14 and performed pitifully in th…

Josh Raisey

15 Jul, 9:45

Bastareaud spotted at Lyon's training facility - reports

A fourth club has been linked to French cast-off Mathieu Bastareaud.

Online Editors

13 Jul, 10:13

Bayonne could field 1032kg pack after supersizing their forwards

Bayonne have bulked up their forward pack with a number of supersized additions.

Ian Cameron

13 Jul, 6:20

South African lock provisionally suspended in France for doping

Stade Francais have had to deal with an avalanche of negative headlines in the past six months, the latest being the provisional s…

Online Editors

12 Jul, 7:58

Heyneke Meyer: 'I am not a dictator'

Heyneke Meyer's time in charge at Stade Francais has seen a lot of upheaval at a club struggling to try and replicate former glori…

Liam Heagney

11 Jul, 13:32

Simon Zebo hosts NFL star at training in Paris

Simon Zebo has a reputation of being a generous character and he embellished this impression this week by volunteering via social …

Josh Raisey

11 Jul, 12:50

Three former Grenoble players sent forward for rape trial

Three former Grenoble players have been sent forward for trial for rape following a night out in Bordeaux in 2017.

Online Editors

11 Jul, 10:29

O'Gara sets off for La Rochelle with farewell tweet for the Crusaders

After two successful years in New Zealand, Ireland's Ronan O'Gara has said farewell to the Super Rugby-winning Crusaders ahead of …

Josh Raisey

11 Jul, 7:30

Meyer to bring in two former Springboks and give under-fire Stade a lift

Heyneke Meyer's first season at Stade Francais was a divisive one and the South African's latest ruse is recruiting two South Afri…

Online Editors

11 Jul, 5:24

Aussie Mitch Lees leaving Exeter for stint in French Top 14

After five seasons at Exeter and a call-up for the England Saxons, Australian Mitch Lees has decided to try out a very different r…

Online Editors

10 Jul, 5:06

Steffon Armitage is leaving France and continuing his career elsewhere

Ex-England back row Steffon Armitage blazed a trail in France playing at multi trophy-winning Toulon but following an injury-hit t…

Online Editors

09 Jul, 14:39

Bastareaud says 'Non' to playing for Toulon for the rest of 2019

The deadline set for Mathieu Bastareaud by Toulon has come and gone with the French midfielder confirming he won't be returning to…

Online Editors

09 Jul, 8:42

David Smith makes surprise move down the grades to prolong his career in France

Samoan David Smith has enjoyed a stellar eight-season career playing in the French Top 14, but he has now made a surprising switch…

Online Editors

09 Jul, 5:20

'Guys are out of jobs' - Rugby agent details the brutal decisions facing players as the market implodes

There is a World Cup thundering down the tracks and rugby has never been more box-office, yet seldom has the life of the rugby age…

Jamie Lyall

08 Jul, 13:40

Nadolo - The Documentary

He's one of the most feared wingers on the planet. A six foot four, 137kg colossus that has run roughshod over countless defenders…

Online Editors

07 Jul, 7:20

Under-23 squads: Super Rugby vs Premiership vs PRO14 vs Top 14

Here's a RugbyPass comparison of the best composite Under-23 squads from rugby's four major club competitions, Super Rugby, the Ga…

Alex Shaw

06 Jul, 11:34

Ronan O'Gara's departing message to the Crusaders ahead of Super Rugby final

Ronan O'Gara's time with the Crusaders is coming to an end. The former Lions test first-five will head to France in a few days for…

Online Editors

05 Jul, 20:26

'French rugby has to crush the world… economically, we are the All Blacks of rugby'

Ahead of a presidential election regarding the governance of the French league, controversial Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal has v…

Online Editors

05 Jul, 5:03

Upwards of a dozen ex-Stade Francais players are taking legal action against the Parisian club

It has been a messy few months for the image of Stade Francais and the latest twist is that a batch of former players are taking l…

Online Editors

04 Jul, 11:16

Snubbed Springboks duo sign for French giant

French giants Clermont have swooped for a pair of snubbed Springboks.

Online Editors

03 Jul, 10:36

He's in a group with South Africa and New Zealand, so he won't be at the World Cup for long

Toulon owner has joked that the Rugby World Cup won't delay Parisse's arrival at Toulon, given Italy are in a group with South Afr…

Online Editors

02 Jul, 3:06

Sergio Parisse signs for Toulon

Italian talisman Sergio Parisse has sensationally signed for RC Toulon.

Online Editors

01 Jul, 9:15

Ex-Glasgow Warriors centre Alex Dunbar exits Scottish Rugby for newly promoted Brive - reports

Centurion Alex Dunbar is to take up a one year deal with Jeremy Davidson's Brive.

Online Editors

30 Jun, 9:39

Potential Manu Samoa debutant forced to choose between club and country

A new Manu Samoa call-up has put his career in jeopardy after opting to play for his country ahead of this year's World Cup instea…

Online Editors

29 Jun, 19:59

The strained relationship that led to Sergio Parisse's split with his beloved Stade Francais

There was more than met the eye in Sergio Parisse's Friday afternoon departure from Stade Francais... rather than being amicable, …

Liam Heagney

29 Jun, 3:24

Montpellier plug the Pienaar gap by recruiting a Samoan from the Premiership

Montpellier entered the off-season light on scrum-halves, but Vern Cotter has now remedied the situation by offering a veteran Sam…

Online Editors

28 Jun, 8:25

Bastareaud set July 8 deadline to sort out short-term future... and he isn't short of options

Getting axed from the France World Cup squad was never in Mathieu Bastareaud's plans when he signed his New York deal, but he has …

Online Editors

28 Jun, 6:00

Samoa name first squad of the year three months out from World Cup

Manu Samoa head coach Steve Jackson has named a 33-man squad, featuring eight new caps, for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup.

Online Editors

25 Jun, 19:33

From Wales to England to France... Scot Hidalgo-Clyne lands himself a Top 14 medical joker deal

It's been quite a year of movement for Sam Hidalgo-Clyne... he left Scotland for Wales last summer, found himself in England in th…

Online Editors

22 Jun, 5:25

'I leave with a heavy, broken heart... but my blood is and will always be a little pink'

Being dismissed by your club alleged serious misconduct is awkward, but Djibril Camara open letter suggests he still has a lot of …

Online Editors

19 Jun, 9:50

'It's a child's dream come true... 15 years ago I watched Toulouse play finals on TV and today it is us'

Toulouse hadn't triumphed in France since 2012, but their title win on Saturday night was the realisation of a childhood dream for…

Online Editors

16 Jun, 5:49

'I watched YouTube videos, with the Shield rising in the stands... I want to experience this incredible atmosphere'

Jerome Kaino went a long time without winning anything at the Blues, but he is now poised to end his first season in France by lea…

Online Editors

15 Jun, 9:38

Bastareaud is proving quite the hit in New York

Eyebrows were raised when it was revealed Mathieu Bastareaud will temporarily switch to New York after the World Cup, but he was o…

Josh Raisey

13 Jun, 14:01

Ronan O'Gara has finally admitted his next step is a return to Top 14

A switch back to France has been rumoured for some time for Ronan O'Gara and the ex-Ireland out-half has now confirmed he is soon …

Online Editors

12 Jun, 7:07

No Ben Smith for Highlanders in vital clash against Waratahs

The Highlanders have been dealt a massive blow in the lead-up to their must-win match against the Waratahs in Invercargill on Frid…

Online Editors

11 Jun, 23:36

Fiji's Gaby Lovobalavu makes French switch

Gaby Lovobalavu has found himself a new club after his departure from Gallagher Premiership club Wasps was confirmed at the beginn…

Online Editors

11 Jun, 9:42

Shoulder surgery likely to end Nehe Milner-Skudder's World Cup hopes

Injury-riddled All Blacks wing Nehe Milner-Skudder's slim hopes of appearing at this year's World Cup in Japan have been dashed.

Online Editors

11 Jun, 0:04

A transfer market could hold the key to making rugby even more competitive

Transfer fees are rare in rugby, but a more regular adoption of the model used in football might potentially create a more competi…

Alex Shaw

10 Jun, 13:46

Former England Saxons flyhalf Lamb calls time

Former England Saxon flyhalf Ryan Lamb has called time on his rugby career.

Ian Cameron

09 Jun, 9:53

Pau sign replacement for disgraced All Black Carl Hayman

Former Cardiff Blues favourite and Taranaki forwards coach Paul Tito has accepted a three-year deal to replace the disgraced All B…

Chris Jones

09 Jun, 9:08

Brive fans deliver their verdict on Stuart Olding

Stuart Olding has well and truly won over the Brive fans, if their end of season awards are anything to go by.

Online Editors

05 Jun, 8:17

'Rugby hurts and the accumulation of wounds tells me that I have to stop,' says a pained Szarzewski

Veteran Dimitri Szarzewski would have loved nothing better than playing through to the end of the season and helping Racing in the…

Online Editors

30 May, 5:39

Ma'a Nonu on verge of shock return to Toulon - reports

Blues' star Ma'a Nonu could make a dramatic return to the French club on a lucrative one-year deal, and boss Mourad Boudjellal is …

James Harrington

29 May, 10:00

'There are goals I still want to achieve with both Leinster and Ireland next season'

There were fears that Rob Kearney's career with Ireland and Leinster appeared finished, but they have finally reached a compromise…

Online Editors

28 May, 5:33

Stuart Olding's dream season in France suffers Pro D2 final heartache

Brive looked all set on Sunday to win the Pro D2 title and put a smile on Stuart Olding's face... but they were denied in a dramat…

Online Editors

26 May, 13:43

The Super Rugby Exodus XV - The best players leaving Super Rugby in one team

Much has been made of the impending exodus from southern hemisphere that is set to ensue following this year's World Cup in Japan,…

Alex McLeod

24 May, 1:37

Julian Savea provides update on his situation at Toulon after rocky year

Former All Blacks wing Julian Savea has come to the final weekend of his first season at Toulon under eccentric owner Mourad Boudj…

Online Editors

22 May, 19:35

Irishman Prendergast the big winner in Racing's coaching reshuffle

Gonzalo Quesada was thought to be the front-runner to become an assistant at Racing under Laurent Travers, but Irishman Mike Prend…

Online Editors

22 May, 14:11

What's at stake and for who ahead of the final round of regular Top 14 season

Four Top 14 teams are battling it out for three play-off places as the gruelling French league enters the final weekend - here's h…

James Harrington

22 May, 13:23

Kiwis in Europe - Aplenty in line for silverware

New Zealand coaches and players are in the thick of the action as the European season reaches silverware time. Campbell Burnes bre…

Campbell Burnes

19 May, 19:05

Quesada seemingly holds the key regarding Top 14 return for Rory Teague

Ex-Gloucester playmaker Rory Teague has been without a coaching gig since leaving Bordeaux last November, but he might be about to…

Online Editors

19 May, 7:22

Gael Fickou has landed himself a novel new role in the French grassroots

With the professional game all consuming, it's rare a player in his prime is active in the grassroots but France's Gael Fickou is …

Online Editors

18 May, 5:18

Spedding calls it quits after 'arriving in France 11 years ago with nothing but a backpack and heart full of dreams'

Aged just 33 and still playing at the highest level in the Top 14, Scott Spedding has decided to quit while he is ahead after reje…

Online Editors

16 May, 9:30

Folau is being rightfully reprimanded - but why do other players keep escaping punishment for their wrongdoings?

OPINION: Israel Folau's contract is on the brink of termination. While there should be no doubts that he is getting exactly what h…

Tom Vinicombe

15 May, 2:23

'I may have been too harsh' Toulon owner Boudjellal softens stance on Savea

Outspoken Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal has admitted that he may have been "too harsh" with his commentary on All Black star sign…

Online Editors

14 May, 17:06

O'Gara's a step closer to French return as La Rochelle confirm Garbajosa exit

Ronan O'Gara's next move has been speculated on all throughout 2019 and it now appears that a partnership with old foe Jono Gibbes…

Online Editors

14 May, 6:30

Challenge Cup Final Preview: Clermont v La Rochelle

The Champions Cup final may be the main course for rugby fans this weekend, but French sides Clermont and La Rochelle will first b…

Tom Vinicombe

10 May, 2:31

Stade owner Wild celebrates Parisian derby win with massive investment promise and Meyer extension

Heineke Meyer's first season at Stade Francais has been problematic, but owner Hans-Peter Wild has given the South African a contr…

Online Editors

05 May, 16:37

Liam Messam hypes massive MLR showdown between giant former teammates

After signing for Major League Rugby outfit Rugby United New York earlier this week, there is a particular showdown that is being …

Josh Raisey

04 May, 8:47

'The body helps you to say stop' - Ex-Bok Flip van der Merwe calls it quits

Flip van der Merwe arrived in France as a seasoned South African international who had won Super Rugby honours and he went on to e…

Online Editors

02 May, 5:24

'It isn't the divorce of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, but there is pain and disappointment'

Fourteen years after they first worked together as co-coaches, Laurent Travers is preparing to work on his own in the Top 14 witho…

Online Editors

01 May, 9:12

French club in pursuit of Crusaders coach

A key member of the Crusaders' staff is being eyed up by a Top 14 club as replacement for an outgoing coach.

Online Editors

30 Apr, 20:30

Bastareaud explains New York move

Toulon centre Mathieu Bastareaud explained why he is headed for New York after the Rugby World Cup.

Peter Hanson

30 Apr, 10:31

Carl Fearns' brilliant Tweet after being 'kissed on the lips' three times by opposite number

Rugby is a game of physicality, but it's also a game of psychological one-up-manship.

Ian Cameron

28 Apr, 7:24

Toulouse guarantee top-two finish in Top 14 as Lyon lose

Top 14 leaders Toulouse enjoyed a fine day as several rivals were beaten amid a series of dramatic finishes.

Ben Spratt

27 Apr, 19:56

Cruden refuses to fuel speculation that he has a Rennie reunion lined up

Injury-prone Aaron Cruden is subject of speculation that a reunion with former club coach Dave Rennie is on the cards, but he didn…

Online Editors

25 Apr, 12:00

The World under-85kg XV - the lightest team on the planet

RugbyPass builds the best under-85kg team possible from the world's professional playing pool. 

RugbyPass

23 Apr, 2:01

Diamond proud of Sale despite semi-final exit to 'too powerful' La Rochelle

Sale boss Steve Diamond admitted his side had been overpowered by La Rochelle in their European Challenge Cup semi-final but only …

Online Editors

20 Apr, 20:42

'I asked the players to come here and win' - disappointed Harlequins turn attention to Premiership after European exit

Harlequins director of rugby Paul Gustard believes his side will take momentum into the Gallagher Premiership after pushing Clermo…

Online Editors

20 Apr, 20:40

'I don't think that's realistic' - Return of former All Blacks star for World Cup unlikely

A return to New Zealand for former All Black Aaron Cruden amid a shortage of first-fives nationwide has been deemed to be highly u…

Online Editors

20 Apr, 3:51

Twitter users poke fun at Bastareaud's rumoured move

Ahead of France centre Mathieu Bastareaud’s potential loan move to the United States after the World Cup, one question has been …

Josh Raisey

16 Apr, 8:15

Twenty-five per cent wage cut likely if Cruden takes up Glasgow's offer

Aaron Cruden has failed to consistently impress since his 2017 switch from Super Rugby to Montpellier, so PRO14 club Glasgow aren'…

Online Editors

16 Apr, 5:57

Former All Black Simon Mannix has fallen on his own sword at struggling Top 14 outfit

Simon Mannix felt he was on to a good thing in France, but Pau's consistent struggles to break into the Top 14's higher reaches ha…

James Harrington

16 Apr, 5:39

Raka nearly stopped French citizenship plans due to online abuse

Clermont winger Alivereti Raka has his sights set on going to the World Cup with France - but revealed vicious online comments mea…

James Harrington

15 Apr, 8:23

Kiwis in Europe: Hughes leads Wasps closer to semis

Nathan Hughes was a standout for Wasps as 90 New Zealanders partook in club competitions all across Europe over the weekend.

Campbell Burnes

14 Apr, 22:40

A shock destination has emerged as Bastareaud plans his post-World Cup loan move

Having played for Toulon since 2011, Mathieu Bastareaud is angling for a post-World Cup loan move... South Africa was initially to…

Online Editors

14 Apr, 15:53

Springbok Pollard set to land £1m-a-season move - reports

Springbok and Bulls flyhalf Handre Pollard could be heading to France at the end of this year's Rugby World Cup in Japan in what w…

Chris Jones

12 Apr, 11:38

Past the point of no return: Where to next for Israel Folau and Rugby Australia?

The events of the past 48 hours have significantly impacted Israel Folau, the Wallabies, and Rugby Australia. So, where do they go…

Alex McLeod

12 Apr, 0:31

'The guy is a moron' - Toulon owner rejects Israel Folau rumours as Wallabies star's career remains on tenterhooks

Toulon boss Mourad Boudjellal has ruled out the prospect of disgraced Wallabies star Israel Folau joining his side in the Top 14.

Online Editors

12 Apr, 0:09

Tuisova one of three Toulon players hit by citings following win over Toulouse

Toulon revelled in their win last weekend over Top 14 leaders Toulouse in Marseille, but there could be a hefty disciplinary price…

Online Editors

09 Apr, 13:34

Julian Savea responds to Kings transfer rumours

Former All Blacks wing and under-fire Toulon star Julian Savea may have just saved the jobs of 20 Kings players with his recent co…

Online Editors

08 Apr, 18:52

Four Toulon stars named in Barbarians squad to face England XV

Four Toulon’s stars have been named in the Barbarians squad that will face an England XV in Twickeham.

Online Editors

08 Apr, 6:28

South African franchise willing to drop 20 players to capture All Blacks legend

An unexpected transfer proposal has emerged from South Africa, with reports of a struggling franchise willing to drop at least 20 …

Online Editors

07 Apr, 19:30

Fijian Sam Matavesi is about to make a massive leap... from mid-table English Championship to trophy-chasing in France

Sam Matavesi hails from a family with a rich rugby pedigree and he is now set for the temporary transfer of a lifetime with a move…

Online Editors

07 Apr, 4:41

A summer of big change is ahead for the Armitage brothers in France

Upheaval is on the cards for the Armitage brothers at the end of the French season as one is retiring from playing while the other…

Online Editors

05 Apr, 9:45

Fijian winger Filipo Nakosi 'to follow brother Josua Tuisova out of Toulon exit door'

Following months of rumours, Nakosi is set to be reunited with former Agen boss Mauricio Reggiardo at reigning Top 14 champions Ca…

James Harrington

04 Apr, 15:47

Toulon have gone from conquering Europe... to hanging out with Kings, the PRO14 strugglers

With Top 14 and PRO 14 very much rival leagues, Toulon's decision to open negotiations about a link-up with a South African franch…

Online Editors

04 Apr, 10:45

Josua Tuisova's Toulon exit a done deal - reports

Reports coming out of France suggest that Toulon favourite Josua Tuisova's decision to leave the club is effectively a done deal.

Ian Cameron

04 Apr, 10:23

Nemani Nadolo has copped a suspension following last month's red card for dangerous play

Nemani Nadolo believed his Test rugby retirement would help his form at Montpellier, but the former Fijian flyer is now set for a …

Online Editors

04 Apr, 6:44

Punishment handed down to Agen following last month's Top 14 coin-throwing incident

Accused of behaving like football hooligans when their defeat to Clermont ended nastily, Agen have finally been punished with a fi…

Online Editors

04 Apr, 6:11

Self-confessed French doper found dead at the age of 41

Doping in rugby is forever a controversial subject but one self-confessed drug user has now passed away at the age of 41, a traged…

Online Editors

04 Apr, 5:46

Pienaar back at Montpellier following compassionate leave, but his future looks uncertain

Ruan Pienaar has returned to France following the mid-February death of his sister, but he might have already played his final mat…

Online Editors

02 Apr, 5:21

Another team in the mix for O'Gara's services - reports

Ronan O'Gara it seems is not short of options when it comes to his next move. The former Ireland outhalf is currently with the …

Online Editors

01 Apr, 6:36

The reason Ardie Savea turned down Pau's big-money offer to stay with the Hurricanes

Ardie Savea has revealed that family was his key motive behind turning down a big-money offer to move from the Hurricanes to Top 1…

Online Editors

29 Mar, 19:00

The competition that could put the World League debate to bed

The congregation of leading executives within the global rugby fraternity to negotiate details for the much-maligned World Rugby N…

Alex McLeod

28 Mar, 23:50

Carbery signs new Munster deal, while O'Connell confirms Stade Francais departure and adds intrigue over his next move

Joey Carbery has signed a new deal with Munster, while Paul O'Connell has confirmed his Stade Francais departure.

Online Editors

26 Mar, 10:40

Agen issue update on investigation into coin assault on assistant referee

Fearing hefty punishment from the Top 14, the pressure is on Agen to identify the spectator who threw the coin that hit an assista…

Online Editors

26 Mar, 8:07

What Paul O'Connell told Stade players suggests a rumoured Toulon move is off the table - reports

Paul O'Connell will not be at Stade Français next season and he will not be coaching at another Top 14 club - according to repor…

Online Editors

25 Mar, 7:40

Kiwis in Europe: Bristol's Kiwis on tight-rope

Pat Lam's Bristol were ousted in a tight affair by Ben Te'o and Michael Fatialofa's Worcester in what was many Kiwi-filled match-u…

Campbell Burnes

24 Mar, 23:28

French rugby compared with 'football hooliganism' as Top 14 referee hit in the head

An ugly incident has occurred in France's Top 14 in a match between Agen and Clermont with referee Thomas Charabas targetted by fa…

Online Editors

24 Mar, 16:19

Alleged homophobic abuse generating war of words ahead of Basque derby

Munster's complaint to Irish police about online harassment isn't the only social media incident making headlines this week as Bia…

Online Editors

24 Mar, 11:33

Paddy Jackson's Perpignan claim first home win of the season

Tries from Carl Fearns, Mickael Ivaldi and Thibaut Regard helped Lyon get back to winning ways in Saturday's Top 14 action.

Alex Fisher

24 Mar, 4:53

O'Connell to cut short his coaching contract in Paris - reports

Paul O'Connell arrived in Paris on a two-year deal last summer but high hopes that it would accelerate his fledgling coaching care…

Online Editors

22 Mar, 4:18

Julian Savea finally set for Toulon return

Out-of-favour Toulon star Julian Savea finally looks to be back in the good books with the French glamour club after being publicl…

Online Editors

21 Mar, 20:17

Family affair at Montpellier with Nadolo's brother arriving as medical joker

Montpellier had it easy securing a medial joker for the injured Benjamin Fall, they just asked Nemani Nadolo to give his brother a…

Online Editors

21 Mar, 7:21

Fijian-born winger Sefa Naivalu latest Wallaby to head to France

Wallabies winger Sefa Naivalu has joined Australia's post-World Cup European exodus, with a French Top 14 club announcing he has s…

Online Editors

20 Mar, 20:39

Meet the unheralded Irishman making quite a name for himself in the Top 14 at the age of 33

No one gave a loosehead who didn't play a single game at his last club in Ireland a chance of becoming a coveted star in France, b…

Online Editors

19 Mar, 8:07

Toulon could turn to an Irishman to help rev up 'The Bus'

With The Bus having stalled in Toulon along with the rest of their attack, boss Patrice Collazo has sounded out an Irish coach abo…

Liam Heagney

18 Mar, 5:15

Toulouse issue warning statement to chasers Clermont

The Top 14's leading two both won on Sunday, but it was Toulouse's bonus-point success that grabbed the attention.

Russell Greaves

17 Mar, 16:56

Champions Castres dismantle struggling Perpignan

There were big wins for 2017-18 Top 14 finalists Castres and Montpellier on Saturday, with Benjamin Urdapilleta inspiring.

Ben Spratt

17 Mar, 7:04

Another All Black signs post-World Cup offshore deal

New Zealand Rugby has again fallen victim to the riches of offshore clubs, as another All Black has signed on to leave New Zealand…

Online Editors

14 Mar, 17:46

'At the moment it's quite bleak' - Three player deaths and damaging defeats leave French rugby under a dark cloud

RugbyPass hears how France's poor performances in the 2019 Six Nations have failed to help move the sport on locally from the blea…

Liam Heagney

14 Mar, 15:17

France U20 World Cup winner suffers stroke

French rugby has been rocked by the news that a France U20 World Cup winner, Antonin Berruyer, has suffered a stroke.

Online Editors

12 Mar, 9:13

'I don't have much rugby left in me' - Why Dan Carter's failed Racing 92 deal was a 'blessing in disguise'

Former World Cup-winning All Black first-five Dan Carter has described his failed Racing 92 deal as a "blessing in disguise" as he…

Online Editors

11 Mar, 23:08

Cudmore to be clubless by end of season - reports

Canadian icon Jamie Cudmore could be left searching a club at the end of the season according to reports coming out of France. …

Online Editors

11 Mar, 10:01

European players need to start considering Japan if they want to extend their careers

With player welfare, longevity and financial earnings ever more important considerations within professional rugby, could Japan be…

Alex Shaw

06 Mar, 6:03

'It's like waking up with a hangover but you haven't had any fun' - Pat Lambie opens up on battle with concussion

Former Springbok flyhalf Pat Lambies has spoken about dealing with concussion and how he deliberately avoided an HIA assessment in…

Online Editors

05 Mar, 0:40

'We are not the mafia here. No one is going to attack his family'

Julian Savea has confirmed his family has received threats concerning their young daughter, with his wife saying she fears for her…

Online Editors

04 Mar, 14:36

Toulouse break their own Top 14 record

A 28-9 victory over Stade Francais saw Top 14 leaders Toulouse break a league record as they extended their unbeaten run to 12 gam…

Liam Blackburn

03 Mar, 15:09

Clermont's All Black scores twice in Grenoble thrashing

Toulouse's lead in the Top 14 table is down to a solitary point after Clermont Auvergne thrashed Grenoble. Lyon, meanwhile, lost a…

Rob Lancaster

03 Mar, 3:42

It's off - Dan Carter's return to Racing 92 has been stopped

"Dan Carter cannot play rugby in France," Racing 92 reveal after medical advice from experts at the Ligue National de Rugby

James Harrington

02 Mar, 12:58

Six Nations boost for Scotland as Russell given all-clear to play in Top 14

Concussion on club duty in France ruled Finn Russell out of round three Six Nations duty, but he has now overcome that injury and …

Online Editors

01 Mar, 13:33

Italian talisman's Twickenham trip in doubt following latest injury update

The 2019 Guinness Six Nations championship was supposed to be Sergio Parisse's European farewell, but concussion has now left the …

Online Editors

01 Mar, 11:08

Tongan Bear revels in his extraordinary rags to riches story that has now earned him a Clermont extension

Having recently signed a one-year extension at Clermont, Loni Uhila, the self-styled Tongan Bear, has been happily reflecting on h…

Online Editors

28 Feb, 15:46

'He has nine games left to show his value' - Toulon coach issues Savea ultimatum

The non-stop pressure on former All Black Julian Savea from Toulon management has continued, with head coach Patrice Collazo issui…

Online Editors

27 Feb, 19:10

'We have tried our best to persuade him otherwise, but, unfortunately to no avail' - Heem to Toulon takes step forward

Bryce Heem's move to Toulon appears to be all but a done deal as Worcester Warriors confirmed the departure of the New Zelander th…

Online Editors

27 Feb, 9:31

'Everybody talks about the big return of the star... but he's a 37-year-old taking the place of a young Frenchman'

Dan Carter's re-signing by Racing as a medical joker to replace the retired Pat Lambie has sparked a war of words in the club game…

Online Editors

26 Feb, 5:35

Neurologist investigating Finn Russell's weekend availability for Racing

Concussed on club duty on February 17, Finn Russell was a huge loss to Scotland in their defeat to France but Racing are checking …

Online Editors

26 Feb, 5:00

Mourad not completely finished with Kiwis... he's signed another a week after savaging Savea

Mourad Boudjellal's extraordinary treatment of Julian Savea should put Kiwis on their guard about entertaining offers from Toulon,…

Online Editors

24 Feb, 18:45

Cotter's position at Montpellier in doubt as Xavier Garbajosa sounded out

Vern Cotter is suffering second season syndrome at struggling Montpellier and the rumours are that last year's beaten Top 14 final…

Online Editors

24 Feb, 18:04

Toulon owner's daughter goes after Savea, as dad takes aim at another All Black

Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal's daughter is the latest family member to send abuse in the direction of beleaguered All Black Juli…

Online Editors

24 Feb, 14:30

Toulouse extend lead at the top, Stade down La Rochelle

Zack Holmes scored 15 points as Toulouse extended their lead at the Top 14 summit, while Stade Francais boosted their play-off hop…

Peter Thompson

23 Feb, 20:06

Andrew Mehrtens: What it's like to play under Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal

Former All Blacks legend Andrew Merhtens has revealed some insight into life as a Toulon player under the guidance of controversia…

Online Editors

22 Feb, 21:13

Jones responds to speculation over Tuilagi

England head coach Eddie Jones has spoken about suggestions that Manu Tuilagi is set for a big-money move to the Top 14.

Peter Thompson

22 Feb, 12:07

'Julian Savea is a fake problem' - Toulon coach responds to drama

Toulon coach Patrice Collazo has responded to the drama surrounding club owner Mourad Boudjellal and star wing Julian Savea by la…

Online Editors

21 Feb, 19:11

Ex-Springbok quits rugby for family farm

A former Springboks halfback has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 29 to return to his family farm in South Africa…

Online Editors

21 Feb, 18:26

Savea's latest social media post suggests he's left the weekend's chaos behind him

In spite of a torrent of abuse from Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal over the past week, Julian Savea does not appear to be phas…

Josh Raisey

21 Feb, 12:02

Beauden Barrett hesistant on Toulon move following Savea savaging

Beauden Barrett has spoken out about the drama surrounding Julian Savea and Mourad Boudjellal, and it doesn't look promising for T…

Online Editors

20 Feb, 0:17

'Class is permanent' - Ronan O'Gara on Mo'unga and Carter

Don’t you worry about Richie Mo’unga at the Crusaders or Dan Carter heading to Racing 92. That’s the message from current Cr…

Campbell Burnes

19 Feb, 22:13

It's not all about the money: A warning for European-bound All Blacks

Unstable off-field environments and diminishing on-field success a common theme at these clubs that the likes of Milner-Skudder, N…

Alex McLeod

19 Feb, 21:31

Toulon owner launches another astonishing rant about Savea

Toulon Mourad Boudjellal has unloaded another verbal bashing on Julian Savea.

Online Editors

19 Feb, 13:45

Rhys Webb's agent has addressed Toulon president's latest outburst

For the second time in the space of 24 hours, a Toulon player has defended himself following comments made by president Mourad Bou…

Harry West

18 Feb, 14:12

The rugby world's unanimous response to Boudjellal's savaging of Savea

A raft of rugby legends have leapt to the defence of All Black and Toulon winger Julian Savea after Mourad Boudjellal’s criticis…

Josh Raisey

18 Feb, 7:35

Dan Carter sends message to fans as he eyes the one trophy that's eluded him

All Black legend Dan Carter took to Instagram after it was announced that he will be returning to Racing 92 for the rest of the se…

Josh Raisey

18 Feb, 6:02

Savea's not alone - the full scale of Boudjellal's fury at misfiring Toulon

All Black Julian Savea was not the only Toulon player to bear the brunt of club president Mourad Boudjellal's anger following the …

James Harrington

18 Feb, 5:09

Julian Savea responds to criticism from Toulon owner and fans

Julian Savea has responded to the recent criticsm he has faced after being told he is ‘no longer welcome’ at Toulon by club…

Online Editors

17 Feb, 20:46

The shocking abuse Toulon fans have been sending Julian Savea

Julian Savea's wife Fatima and brother Ardie have hit back at Toulon fans on social media after the former All Black was told he i…

Online Editors

17 Feb, 17:59

Kiwis in Europe: Kaino helps Toulouse back to top

81 Kiwis took part in the weekend's northern hemisphere action, including former All Blacks loose forward Jerome Kaino who now pli…

Campbell Burnes

17 Feb, 17:17

Toulouse resist Racing fightback to reclaim top spot

Racing 92 ran out of time in their defeat to Toulouse, while La Rochelle survived a Top14 scare against lowly Grenoble.

Peter Hanson

17 Feb, 14:39

Dan Carter is a Racing 92 player once again

Racing 92 have some pretty formidable back-up for Finn Russell with Dan Carter returning to the Top14 club.

Peter Hanson

17 Feb, 13:14

Finn Russell is Scotland's latest injury scare as good news emerges on Hogg prognosis

Finn Russell's failure to return from a head injury assessment for the second-half of Racing's Top 14 match with Toulouse has give…

Online Editors

17 Feb, 12:15

Julian Savea sensationally released by Toulon - reports

Julian Savea has been told he is 'no longer welcome' at Toulon according to shock reports emerging from France.

Ian Cameron

17 Feb, 8:36

Expat Six Nations players bear the brunt as clubs called the shots this weekend

Six Nations had a down weekend but there was no rest for most of the Scottish, Welsh and Italian players who earn their club salar…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb, 4:30

Clermont hit the top, Perpignan finally win

Perpignan finally had a win to celebrate, while Clermont Auvergne were too good for Bordeaux-Begles in Top14.

Peter Hanson

16 Feb, 19:50

Dan Carter is returning to France to play rugby - reports

Dan Carter is set to return to Europe to play rugby again according to reports from France, as he seeks a temporary release from J…

James Harrington

15 Feb, 6:05

Report: England star Tuilagi visits Top 14 training facility as transfer rumours ramp up

Rumours of a high-profile switch from the Premiership to the Top 14 for one of England's key players are rife among French media.

Online Editors

12 Feb, 17:59

Boudjellal reveals leaving date as Toulon soap saga takes fresh twist

Toulon boss Mourad Boudjellal reveals when he'll quit club and promises fireworks before he goes - including a sizeable player cul…

James Harrington

06 Feb, 10:49

'It's not anywhere near Premiership' - Chris Ashton blasts 'slow' Top 14

Having played in the Top 14 with Toulouse, Chris Ashton believes the pace of play in the league is harming France at international…

Christopher Devine

04 Feb, 22:15

Troubled All Black Guildford walks out on another club

Former World Cup-winning All Black Zac Guildford has left another club mid-season. The troubled All Black - who has had well-pu…

Ian Cameron

30 Jan, 7:31

Webb issues statement after 'negative' messages on social media

Welsh scrum half Rhys Webb has issued a statement on Twitter after his fiance revealed that she and their three children were movi…

Online Editors

29 Jan, 9:35

Toulouse beat Grenoble to go top, Toulon stun Stade with late rally

Toulouse replaced Clermont Auvergne at the summit of the Top 14 table on Sunday, while Toulon scored two late tries to stun Stade …

Peter Thompson

27 Jan, 17:29

Castres halt Clermont juggernaut, La Rochelle and Lyon cut gap

Clermont had not been beaten since October, but they were brought back down to earth by Top 14 champions Castres.

Peter Thompson

26 Jan, 19:57

Japan Top League 'Select' to play Clermont in Japan next week

A Top League Select side will take on ASM Clermont Auvergne from the Top 14 in France in the Japan.

Online Editors

26 Jan, 12:14

Former teen prodigy nears playing return after year out of game

Mathieu Jalibert is targeting a late February comeback after resuming squad training at Bordeaux nearly a year after suffering a s…

James Harrington

23 Jan, 15:06

Watch: Antoine Dupont starts and finishes chaotic opportunists' try

A few moments of madness led to Toulouse throwing structure out the window and scoring a spectacular opportunists' try to extend t…

Online Editors

20 Jan, 22:54

'We hoped for something else' - Montpellier owner weighs in on struggling Cruden

Billionaire Montpellier owner Mohad Altrad has expressed his thoughts on coach Vern Cotter and star signing Aaron Cruden after rec…

Online Editors

20 Jan, 22:19

Watch: Battering Banahan goes beast mode to set up spectacular try

Gloucester wing Matt Banahan proved just why he is one of rugby's toughest men to cover in his side's 24-22 Champions Cup loss to …

Online Editors

19 Jan, 21:45

'We understand his decision, but we regret that such a genius of the game is forced to come to this end'

At the age of just 28, former Springbok Patrick Lambie has retired from professional rugby, his club Racing 92 have announced.

Harry West

19 Jan, 10:03

VIDEO EXCLUSIVE: Big Jim's Big Interview with Simon Zebo - dealing with racism, Ireland and the 'Cartel'

Simon Zebo has spoken to exclusively to RugbyPass about what he heard at Ulster last weekend. He also spoke to Big Jim about life …

Jim Hamilton

18 Jan, 13:22

Ben Tameifuna cops lengthy ban for high shot

Racing 92 prop Ben Tameifuna has received a lengthy ban in France after a dangerous tackle in his latest Top 14 outing.

Online Editors

16 Jan, 20:45

Malakai Fekitoa set to continue All Black-hiatus with move to Premiership

Former All Black midfielder Malakai Fekitoa is set to continue his All-Black-hiatus with an impending move to the Gallagher Premie…

Online Editors

15 Jan, 20:01

Clermont's Cancoriet ruptures pectoral tendon

Judicael Cancoriet is set to have surgery on a torn pectoral tendon which he suffered in their 48-40 European Rugby Challenge Cup …

Nicholas McGee

14 Jan, 14:57

Worcester and Clermont reach Challenge Cup quarter-finals

Ryan Mills' last-gasp drop goal put Worcester Warriors into the last eight of the Challenge Cup for the first time in a decade.

Peter Thompson

12 Jan, 18:24