The Top 14 made their comeback on Friday after six months of hiatus, with a Montpellier-Pau match.

The shadow of the coronavirus, however, still hangs over the competition, which has already suffered greatly from its stoppage. 

Finally back to school for the Top 14!

After six months without competition, the French rugby championship resumed on Friday, with a Montpellier-Pau match.

He was initially due to resume with a shock between the Stade Français and Bordeaux-Bègles but the duel was postponed to a later date, the Parisian club not being able to present a first line, decimated by the Covid-19.

Well inspired, the leaders of the National Rugby League (LNR) had previously brought forward the match planned in the Hérault to secure the resumption of the Top 14. The resumption had become vital for the clubs. 

>> LIVE -

 Coronavirus: follow the evolution of the situation Friday, September 4

Because they have already suffered a lot economically.

In the past few months, 13 out of 14 clubs have cut salaries.

The reduced size of spectators weakens them, since the public generates 60% of their income.

The loss is already estimated for the Top 14 and the Pro D2 at at least 30 million euros. 

A recovery expected by the players

On the players' side too, the recovery was eagerly awaited.

"I think it is time to resume. After we know that we will resume in a little different, a little strange conditions", recognizes Pierre-Louis Barrassi, of Lyon Olympic University Rugby. 

CORONAVIRUS ESSENTIALS

> Covid-19: why the increase in the number of cases is greater than that of hospitalizations

> INVESTIGATION - Coronavirus: towards a new shortage of masks and gloves?

> Faced with the rebound of the Covid-19 epidemic, screening centers are overwhelmed

> Holidays: should grandparents worry about looking after their grandchildren?

> Coronavirus: the 5 mistakes not to make with your mask

Member of Racing 92, Camille Chat, tested every two days, navigates between fears and desire to find the land.

"There is fear about how the championship will unfold. After that, there is also a lot of desire because it's been four months since we played rugby."

The next meeting of his club, with Clermont, is currently scheduled for September 19.