Nissa Rugby's Welsh contingent have been dealt a monumental blow after their hard-won promotion to Pro D2 was cancelled by French rugby's financial watchdog, A2R.
The disciplinary committee of A2R - working on behalf of the LNR (Ligue Nationale de Rugby) - saw fit to block Nissa's promotion to France's second tier on Friday after a week of speculation. The Nice-based club had secured promotion from the Nationale back in May, after beating Stade Montois in a promotion/relegation play-off.
Uncertainty Over Next Season
Nothing official has been announced on what league they will play in next season, but the third tier Nationale seems the obvious choice.
The news comes as a major blow for their Welsh players and coaches. Gareth Baber is head coach at the Cote d'Azur club, while former Dragons coach Barry Maddocks is his assistant. Baber recently gave an interview to WalesOnline about the club's success under him and big plans for the future.
Wales internationals Tyler Morgan and Owen Williams are also on the books, with both having scored in the play-off final. Former Ospreys second-row Luke Fender recently joined the club's academy too, having spent the early part of his time in France training with the first-team.
Financial Support Withdrawn
The problem stems from a withdrawal of financial support from the Nice city council and its mayor, Eric Ciotti. Reportedly, money had been promised by the council towards the renovation of the club's stadium - but that was withdrawn, with work at a standstill for several weeks.
As such, Nissa's president Jean-Baptiste Aldige and the association's president, Patrice Prevot, both announced their resignations - plunging the club into uncertainty as they now do not reach the requirements around financial security for Pro D2. Aldige and Ciotti have reportedly only been corresponding through letters, with L'Equipe reporting the mayor has largely refused to engage in any contact.
Appeal and Implications
The club have 15 days to appeal the decision. Were they to not do that, or were their appeal to be unsuccessful, Stade Montois would avoid relegation and stay in Pro D2.
Speaking on Wednesday, Stade Montois' president, Jean-Robert Cazeaux told L'Equipe: "I am monitoring the situation, and as far as we are concerned, we are preparing for our season in the Nationale league. If Nice's relegation were to be confirmed and final, we would be able to return to Pro D2."
