Paris (AFP)

After registering nine positive tests for Covid-19 last week, Racing 92 has put itself "in a bubble" to limit the risks between now and the European Cup final on October 17 against Exeter, but it is also necessary that he "plays", explained his trainer Laurent Travers on Friday.

Q: How did the team train before the match against Toulouse on Saturday?

A: "The week has been disturbing but the important thing is that we can + match +. This is our priority. Monday morning, we did the tests. Depending on the results, which were in good shape ( two positive tests, editor's note) we were able to do small groups (training) Tuesday and Wednesday by doing new tests on Wednesday. We had confirmation that the entire workforce which was in small groups was negative. so, we were able to spend on collective (training) yesterday (Thursday) and today (Friday) afternoon. "

Q: Is this match against Toulouse almost a pain before the European Cup final the following Saturday?

A: "No, it's not a hassle. We have a top 14 and it is important. It is essential to finish in the (first) six to be able to qualify for the Champions Cup. You have to adapt. Our priority is to stay focused on the Stade Toulousain match and as soon as it is over, we will switch to the Champions Cup. "

Q: You have set up a bubble to stem the spread of the virus.

This match is the only time you will lose control.

Is this the reason why major players are missing?

A: "We are trying to do what is necessary to work on the two confrontations. This will allow players to have playing time and to be able to express themselves because there are still places (to be taken) for the final. We are in a bubble but then we have to play too. We know that the risk exists for the match at Stade Toulouse but we also made another decision. From Sunday, we will change the bubble . A private plane will allow us to go to an area where the percentage of contamination is ten times lower. It is a place where they have applied to host the 2023 World Cup (...) We will (therefore) leave for Corsica where they will be able to welcome us in good conditions with the Claude-Papi stadium (in Porto-Vecchio, note), the weight room and the pitch privatized. The hotels are closed so that 'they can receive us. Then we will leave on Friday (October 16) from Corsica to Bristol. "

Q: Can the situation continue all season under these circumstances?

A: "You have to be very vigilant but it is important that life goes on. There is of course the medical health side which is undeniable but there is also the economic health which is becoming essential."

Q: Five matches have already been postponed indefinitely in Top 14. Should we review the health protocol and perhaps reconsider the debate on a possible forfeit in the event of a wave of contaminations?

A: "For the moment, it is still early. On the protocol, I do not have enough medical knowledge and I would not allow myself (to express themselves). They will perhaps change it ... If we look at the calendar, there are three dates in February, one again in November. It's been almost four dates (...) Currently we are not at three postponements per club. On the other hand, arriving at the fourth we may have to play during the week or even things differently. But before we go so far, let the vaccine arrive, that there are fewer cases and that we can continue to play so that our championship has a beautiful champion. "

Interview at a press conference

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