Pro d2 - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Pro D2 is the second highest level of professional rugby union in France, below the Top 14. It consists of 16 teams competing in a round-robin format with promotion and relegation to and from the Top 14.
- 2. The Pro D2 season typically runs from August to May, with teams playing a total of 30 regular season matches. The top two teams at the end of the season are promoted to the Top 14, while the bottom two teams are relegated to Fédérale 1.
- 3. The Pro D2 is known for its competitive nature, with teams from across France vying for promotion to the Top 14. The level of play is high, with many top players from around the world featuring in the league.
- 4. The Pro D2 has a rich history, with many famous clubs having competed in the league over the years. Some of the most successful teams in Pro D2 history include Lyon, Perpignan, and Biarritz.
- 5. Matches in the Pro D2 are played on weekends, with teams typically playing home and away fixtures against each other. The league also features a playoff system, with the top six teams at the end of the regular season competing for promotion to the Top 14.
- 6. The Pro D2 is a popular league in France, with matches regularly attracting large crowds and television audiences. The league is also known for its passionate fan base, with supporters turning out in force to cheer on their teams.
- 7. The Pro D2 is also a breeding ground for young talent, with many players using the league as a stepping stone to higher levels of rugby. Several current French internationals, including Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack, began their careers in the Pro D2.
- 8. The Pro D2 is governed by the Ligue Nationale de Rugby (LNR), which also oversees the Top 14 and other professional rugby competitions in France. The LNR sets the rules and regulations for the league, including player eligibility and financial guidelines.
- 9. The Pro D2 has a strong commercial presence, with sponsors and partners supporting the league and its teams. Many clubs in the Pro D2 have lucrative sponsorship deals with companies from various industries.
- 10. Overall, the Pro D2 is a highly competitive and exciting league that provides a platform for talented players to showcase their skills and compete at a high level of rugby. With its rich history and passionate fan base, the Pro D2 continues to be a vital part of the French rugby landscape.