Everything you need to know about the Top 14

Do you often hear about the Top 14 without really knowing what it means? Are you wondering how the championship works and would you like to know more about the world of French rugby? We'll explain everything to you in four questions.

What is the Top 14?

This is the professional rugby union championship in France. It is the highest level of French rugby (the equivalent of Ligue 1 in football). It is also one of the most prestigious rugby leagues in the world, with teams frequently competing on a European scale.

How does the championship work?

The championship is made up of 14 teams.

Regular season: Each team plays the others in a home-and-away match.

Final phase:

• The top six teams qualify.
• The first two go directly to the semi-finals.
• The teams ranked 3rd to 6th will play a play-off.
• The winner of the Top 14 is crowned French champion and lifts the famous Brennus Shield.

Relegation: The bottom team in the standings goes down to Pro D2, and the second-to-bottom team plays a play-off match against a Pro D2 team.

The last 10 winners of the Top 14

The 2024/2025 Top 14 season calendar

• Regular season: from Saturday, September 7, 2024 to Saturday, June 7, 2025
• Dam: Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14, 2025
• Access Top 14: Saturday, June 14, 2025
• Semi-final: Friday, June 20, 2025
• Final: Saturday, June 28, 2025

On which channel can you watch Top 14 matches?

All Top 14 matches can be watched on Canal + until 2027. Are you outside France and wondering which channel to watch the matches on? Find all the broadcasters country by country on the Top 14 website .

For lovers of French rugby, discover all our posters featuring the Top 14 clubs .