This afternoon, the Arboras will host one of the matches that are worth their weight in points: Stade Niçois is hosting the Gardois from Nîmes who are ahead of them in the standings.
Both teams are among the group of five contenders vying for the three qualifying spots behind Tricastin, who seem untouchable this season.
Nice has already lost twice at home, and a third defeat could be fatal for their hopes of reaching the playoffs.
It would be more than a disappointment given the immense budget for the category, the support from the municipality in terms of investment in facilities, and, for the past three years, a sponsor akin to those in the Top 14, who announced their involvement in the club’s capital.
In fact, in January, the establishment of a sports private limited company (SASP) will be completed with shareholding, directly or indirectly, tied to Allianz, one of the world’s largest insurers. The association will retain the management of youth teams, the rugby school, as well as the women’s and veterans’ teams.
Jean-Marc Pailhol, a member of Allianz’s Executive Committee, presented this restructuring of the club and mentioned a five-year horizon for promotion to Pro D2.
Regarding the future governance of the club, after the removal of the former president Tony Catoni and the temporary appointment of Patrice Prévôt, more details are awaited.
On this subject, we reached out to Allianz, but they did not respond to our inquiries.
