Toulouse (AFP)
French professional rugby clubs (Top 14 and Pro D2) are waiting for public aid of around 40 million euros, 70% of which must be paid by the end of November, to survive the health crisis, said Friday to AFP a source close to the League.
This amount is part of the envelope of 107 million euros released after weeks of negotiations between the Ministry of Sports and Bercy to help clubs hard hit by the restrictions imposed in the fight against Covid-19.
This public aid is subject to the approval of the European Union.
Rugby clubs are also hoping to obtain an exemption from charges from the government in order to survive the pursuit of the championships behind closed doors, a consequence of the confinement imposed until early December.
Rugby clubs estimate that more than 60%, up to 75% for some, live on income directly linked to matches indirectly (ticketing, shops, refreshments and above all hospitality and partnerships).
Based on four months (from September to December) of matches with the gauge of 5,000 spectators, the average standard imposed at the start of the season, the clubs have calculated their shortfall at 54 million euros and made a request in this direction.
But the situation has deteriorated since: with a closed session over half a season, they could lose 180 million euros according to the NRL.
To receive part of the 40 million envelope, the clubs will have to declare their shortfall to Bercy, which will rely on the National Direction of Assistance and Management Control (DNACG), financial policeman of rugby, to verify the consistency of their file.
Jean-François Fonteneau, president of Agen, the lowest budget in the championship (14.5 million euros), told AFP on Wednesday that each game behind closed doors could cost "400 or 500,000 euros in lost earnings "to his club.
Without additional help, Pau "will not be able to consider playing beyond the end of the year," said its president Bernard Pontneau.
Day 7 of the Top 14, Saturday and Sunday, will be the very first to be played behind closed doors.
© 2020 AFP