Stade Toulousain rallies against criticism ahead of Top 14 semi‑final vs Racing 92

After a mixed end to the regular season – including an unexpected loss to Clermont and defeats to La Rochelle and Lyon – the French rugby champions Stade Toulousain faced growing media criticism. Coach Ugo Mola told the press that the doubts were "a source of motivation" and urged the squad to stay focused.

Winger Mathis Lebel echoed the sentiment, saying the team had become more solid and "hermetic" to external commentary. The players stressed a renewed solidarity in the locker room.

In the semi‑final at Marseille, Toulouse answered the criticism with a dominant 71‑point victory over Racing 92, demonstrating a revived attacking edge. The win positions the club to chase a fourth consecutive Top 14 title.

Quotes from the camp included Mola’s remark, "Franchement, c’est grâce à vous," and Lebel’s comment that the team "tries to be hermetic" while using the scrutiny to fuel their performance.