French rugby prepares for major rule changes and new season

French professional rugby is entering a period of significant transition for the 2026-2027 season. The Ligue Nationale de Rugby (LNR) has decided to end the unique rule allowing tactical substitutions in the Top 14 and Pro D2, returning to international regulations. This change aims to increase match tempo and align with global standards, as officials noted the previous rule contributed to slower gameplay and lower effective playing time.

In the Pro D2, the upcoming season features high stakes for various clubs. Provence Rugby enters as a major contender with a significant budget, while clubs like CA Brive and Oyonnax aim to maintain or improve their standings. The league's landscape has been reshaped by the promotion of Narbonne and Nice and the relegation of Mont-de-Marsan and Carcassonne.

In other sports, JDA Dijon Handball enters the new season as European champions, facing the challenge of balancing continental success with domestic ambitions in the Ligue Butagaz Énergie.