Rennes

Stade Rennais Football Club, known affectionately as ‘Rennes,’ has enjoyed a long and storied history in French football. Since its inception in 1901, Rennes has been a regular presence in Ligue 1, France’s premier football league. Not only has it survived but flourished, producing memorable seasons and unforgettable talents.

The Pillars of Rennes’ Rich History

Throughout the decades, Rennes has brought forth a parade of players who have dazzled both the Roazhon Park faithful and the broader footballing world. Some have used the club as a launchpad for a glittering career, while others have carved out their legacy right here in Rennes.

A mention of such exceptional talents would be incomplete without the likes of Yoann Gourcuff. The local lad from Brittany was a midfield maestro for Rennes before he moved on to achieve greater glory at Lyon and with the French national team. Another notable figure is Petr Čech, the goalkeeper who began his European journey with Rennes and later made his mark at Chelsea in the English Premier League.

In more recent times, Ousmane Dembélé and Eduardo Camavinga have been sensational products of Rennes’ youth system. Both of these players have showcased the club’s commitment to nurturing and developing young talents.

The Roazhon Rivalries: Friendships Forged in Fire

Rennes’ journey in Ligue 1 has been marked by fierce rivalries, both on and off the field. The most notable of these is the “Derby Breton” against Nantes. The two clubs have been at loggerheads since they first crossed paths in the 1950s, and these clashes are a spectacle for every fan of French football.

Equally captivating is the rivalry with Guingamp, another club from Brittany. Although not as historic as the Nantes rivalry, the games between these two teams are always closely contested and filled with passion.

In a broader sense, Rennes’ games against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have developed into an intriguing contest. PSG’s rise to the summit of French football has been met with defiance from Rennes, leading to several thrilling encounters.

Moreover, the rivalry extends beyond the borders of Ligue 1. In the UEFA Europa League, Rennes has had intense battles with Premier League’s Arsenal. Their fiery encounters are a testament to Rennes’ competitive spirit on the continental stage.

The Roazhon Park: More Than Just a Stadium

The Roazhon Park, previously known as Stade de la Route de Lorient, is the heart and soul of Rennes football. The stadium, capable of accommodating close to 30,000 fans, has been the club’s home since 1912. Over the years, it has witnessed numerous memorable moments and has been renovated to offer a world-class spectator experience.

The main stand, known as “Mordelles,” offers an excellent view of the pitch and the atmosphere is electric on match days. While the stand named “Lorient” offers a more budget-friendly option, the view is equally impressive. The average ticket price ranges from €30 for Lorient to €50 for Mordelles. Meanwhile, the VIP stands, known as “Super U,” offer a more luxurious experience, with prices starting from €120.

Whether you’re sitting in Mordelles, Lorient, or Super U, there’s no bad seat in the house. Every matchday is a celebration of the city’s love for football, and Roazhon Park serves as the perfect stage for it.

Rennes’ journey in Ligue 1 is a captivating tale filled with highs and lows, unforgettable players, heated rivalries, and a stadium that stands as a symbol of the city’s passion. As the club continues to write new chapters in its rich history, there’s no doubt that the best is yet to come for the Red and Blacks.

The Full Story

• Although Rennes is now predominantly known for its footballing prowess, it was originally founded as a multi-sport club in 1901, encompassing a variety of sports such as athletics and rugby. It wasn’t until a year later, in 1902, that the club started a football department.
• Rennes holds the distinction of being the first French club to hire a foreign coach. In 1952, they appointed the Hungarian František Ipčič as their manager, marking a pivotal moment in the history of French football.
• Rennes is not only about football. The club has a strong commitment to the community and organizes an annual charity run, the “Rouge et Noir” race. This event sees the participation of thousands of locals and is a testament to Rennes’ role in community development.
• Rennes’ youth academy is highly revered in French football and has been recognized multiple times for its commitment to nurturing young talent. In 2018 and 2020, the club’s youth setup was awarded the “Best Youth Academy in France” title.
• In 1965, Rennes became the first French club to establish a professional training center for young players. This marked a significant shift in the development and nurturing of talent within the club and paved the way for future stars to emerge.
• In the 2004-2005 season, Rennes achieved a defensive record that still stands today. The team went 1,176 minutes without conceding a goal in Ligue 1, equivalent to about thirteen games, showcasing their outstanding defensive solidity.
• Rennes was the first French club to recruit a foreign player post-World War II. In 1948, they signed the Danish player Johannes Pløger, marking another historic milestone in the club’s rich history.