Top 14: Economic impact, fan behavior drive cities' race to host semi-finals

Cities across France are vying to host the Top 14 rugby semi-finals, an event that has become a major fixture in the sporting calendar, drawing significant attention and economic benefits. Marseille is set to host this year's semi-finals, marking a return to the city where the event was first relocated in 2011.

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They have become a major event in the sporting calendar, across all sports. It is an event that cities and stadiums want to host.

Emmanuel Eschalier, director general of the league, highlighted the strong appeal of the semi-finals, noting that the league has launched a consultation for the 2028, 2029, and 2030 editions. Numerous cities have submitted proposals detailing stadium hospitality, city-wide entertainment, and year-round rugby-related activities. The decision on these future host cities is expected soon.

The intense interest stems from the substantial economic impact, estimated at 20 million euros per event. Approximately 80% of spectators travel from outside the host department, often discovering the city for the first time and spending an average of 350 euros per person. Beyond the financial boost, hosting the semi-finals significantly enhances a city's profile and creates a vibrant atmosphere for 48 to 72 hours.

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It is an event that makes the city shine, that brings conviviality, extraordinary moments for 48 or 72 hours. And then, there is a massive economic impact, estimated at 20 million euros with nearly 80% of spectators coming from departments other than the one hosting the semi-finals.

While stadium capacity is a crucial factor, with semi-finals quickly filling venues of 55,000 to 65,000 seats, it is not the sole determinant. The league also aims to spread the Top 14's influence across various regions, supporting established rugby areas and expanding into new territories. The assurance of a well-behaved event, with mixed supporters enjoying the festivities without incident, is also a key selling point for candidate cities.

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But it is not the only one, otherwise the semi-finals would alternate between Lyon and Marseille every year. There is also the ambition to make the Top 14 shine in a maximum of regions, regions where rugby is already strongly established and regions of conquest and development.