Top 14: when the semi-finalists play without an army of fans

Every year, the Top 14 semi-finals turn into a big popular gathering. Dressed in all colors, the supporters sing, celebrate and wait between happiness and stress for the two scheduled shocks. This Marseille edition is no exception to the rule.

 

Tickets taken in advance… sometimes at a loss

On sale since November, places sold out in a few weeks. But to buy so early is to bet on the qualification of your club. Result, supporters of Pau or UBB, eliminated in the play-offs, will be present without seeing their team on the field. Some could even decide not to come anymore since they will be neutral in the stands.

 

The NRL reserves 2,300 places per semi-finalist club. However, several groups have not managed to sell their entire quota. And for good reason, due to lack of large communities of supporters or too short deadlines to organize. These tickets have been put back on sale.

 

Montpellier and Paris in the minority

If the MHR mobilized 12 supporters’ buses, its fan club president recognizes that the minority is part of Montpellier’s identity. On the Stade Français side, a few tickets have been returned, but three buses will still leave for Marseille. The League expects more than 130,000 spectators over the weekend. But even without a human tide for each club, the Vélodrome promises a unique atmosphere, a mixture of popular celebration and rugby passion.

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To summarize

In Marseille, the Top 14 semi-finals will be played in front of 130,000 spectators, but without large communities of fans of the qualified clubs. Between surrendered quotas, isolated supporters and festive atmosphere, the Vélodrome will experience a weekend more carnival than human tide.