Nissa Rugby Secures Pro D2 Spot After Successful Appeal

The French Rugby Federation’s appeal commission confirmed that Nice‑based Nissa Rugby will remain in the Pro D2 league for the upcoming season, overturning an administrative relegation announced in July. The club satisfied the Authority of Rugby Regulation’s demand for €4.6 million in financial guarantees, a pledge delivered by former Biarritz president Jean‑Baptiste Aldigé through his company Sport Inside Europe. As a condition, the federation imposed a suspended two‑point deduction, which will stay in force only if the club meets its commitments.

The decision ends weeks of uncertainty for players, staff and supporters. Player licences have been re‑issued, allowing the team to play its scheduled friendly against Chambéry. Mayor Éric Ciotti’s recent talks with major shareholder Louis‑Vincent Gave helped pave the way for the agreement.