Top 14 rugby season begins with Stade Toulousain as favorites

The 2026/2027 Top 14 rugby season begins this weekend, with Stade Toulousain entering as the heavy favorite to defend their title and pursue a historic quintuple. Experts and former managers identify Union Bordeaux-Bègles and Montpellier as the primary challengers to the reigning champions.

Several clubs are entering new phases. Stade Rochelais is launching a youth-focused cycle under coach Ronan O’Gara, while other teams like Pau, Toulon, and Racing 92 are positioned as potential contenders. At the bottom of the table, newly promoted Vannes and Perpignan are expected to fight for survival against clubs like Lyon and Castres.

A significant regulatory change is also impacting the league: the number of permitted replacements has been reduced from 12 back to 8 to align with international and European standards. This decision has sparked debate among coaches and players regarding player health and the increased strategic difficulty of managing squad depth during matches.