RC Vannes Secures Promotion to Top 14 After Pro D2 Final Victory

RC Vannes has earned promotion to the Top 14 for the 2026 season by clinching the Pro D2 final against Provence Rugby with a narrow 18-14 win on June 6, 2026. The Breton club dominated the Pro D2 season, finishing as clear leaders with an impressive 116 points and 24 wins.

The final, held at Stade Ernest-Wallon in Toulouse, saw Vannes take an early advantage with a try from Robin Taccola, set up by international scrum-half Michael Ruru. Though Provence Rugby fought back, narrowing the gap with their own scores, Vannes maintained control with a penalty kicked by Maxime Lafage and a second try by Ben Stevenson. Provence staged a late rally with a try from Joris Cazenave but ultimately fell short.

This victory marks a significant moment for Vannes, who previously won Pro D2 in 2024 but faced immediate relegation from the Top 14. The club now aims to secure its status among France's rugby elite. Meanwhile, Provence Rugby has a second chance for promotion through a play-off against Perpignan, the second-to-last Top 14 team, on June 14.

Vannes’ impressive season and victory underscore their determination and potential to compete at the highest level in French rugby.