Lyon, France – The city of Lyon has been chosen to host the semi-finals of the Top 14 rugby championship in May 2028. The prestigious matches will take place at the Groupama Stadium in Décines-Charpieu, near Lyon. This decision follows a joint bid submitted in April by the Métropole de Lyon, the City of Lyon, and OL, the operator of the sports venue.
Lyon’s Successful Bid for Top 14 Semi-Finals
The bid specifically targeted the 2028, 2029, or 2030 editions of the Top 14 semi-finals, with Lyon ultimately securing the 2027-2028 edition. According to information from the Métropole, Lille is set to host the semi-finals in 2029, and Marseille in 2030.
Véronique Sarselli, President of the Métropole de Lyon, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “This decision validates our desire to promote the region and its expertise in hosting major sporting events.”
Lyon: A Hub for Rugby Events
This is not the first time Lyon has been a focal point for major rugby competitions. The city has previously hosted the Top 14 semi-finals during the 2017-2018 and 2024-2025 seasons. Furthermore, the Groupama Stadium was a key venue for several matches during the Rugby World Cup 2023, further solidifying Lyon’s reputation as a prime location for significant sporting spectacles.
Groupama Stadium: A State-of-the-Art Venue
The Groupama Stadium, located in Décines-Charpieu, is a modern and well-equipped facility capable of accommodating large-scale events. Its selection for such an important stage of the Top 14 championship underscores its quality and capacity to deliver a premium experience for both players and spectators. The stadium’s management, in collaboration with local authorities, has consistently demonstrated its ability to organize and execute high-profile sporting events successfully.
Economic and Regional Impact
Hosting events of this magnitude brings considerable economic benefits to the Lyon metropolitan area. It stimulates local tourism, boosts the hospitality sector, and creates temporary employment opportunities. The influx of rugby fans from across France and beyond will contribute significantly to the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. Moreover, such events enhance Lyon’s international profile, attracting future investments and tourism.
Future Sporting Ambitions
The continuous success in securing major sporting events highlights Lyon’s strategic vision to become a leading European sports destination. The collaborative efforts between the Métropole de Lyon, the City of Lyon, and OL Group are instrumental in achieving these ambitions. This latest announcement for the Top 14 semi-finals in 2028 is a testament to their effective partnership and commitment to sports development.
Preparation and Logistics
While the event is still several years away, preliminary planning and logistical arrangements will soon commence. Ensuring seamless transportation, adequate accommodation, and robust security measures will be paramount to the success of the semi-finals. Drawing on past experiences, Lyon’s event organizers are well-prepared to manage the complexities associated with hosting a national championship of this scale.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm by rugby fans and local residents alike, who look forward to witnessing top-tier rugby action in their city. The 2028 Top 14 semi-finals promise to be another memorable chapter in Lyon’s rich sporting history.
