Venue and Schedule Finalized for Key 7th Round Coupe de France Matches

The seventh round of the 2026 Coupe de France is set with important scheduling and venue decisions impacting several clubs. Chambéry SF will host Grenoble Foot 38 at the Chambéry Savoie Stadium on Thursday, November 12 at 19:00. This match deviates from the typical Friday to Sunday scheduling due to a rugby event at the stadium on November 14 and regional scheduling conflicts. The French Football Federation (FFF) denied Chambéry's request to delay kickoff to 19:30 to accommodate fans wanting to watch the UEFA Nations League France-Italy match, prioritizing spectators' ability to watch both events.

Two other fixtures highlight logistical challenges and improvements among participating clubs. FCO Firminy Insersport (Regional 1) will face FC Annecy (Ligue 2) on Saturday, November 14, at the stade municipal Le Corbusier in Firminy-Vert. The stadium, which seats 3,500 and recently underwent major renovations including a €1.145 million floodlighting system, will accommodate Annecy supporters within FFF regulations. Eric Malley, deputy for sports, emphasized ongoing support to ensure the match’s successful hosting.

Meanwhile, Lourdes will play Pau in what marks Lourdes’ first seventh round appearance. Due to Lourdes’ home stadium being too small and lacking appropriate facilities, the match will be relocated to Maurice-Trélut stadium in Tarbes on the weekend of November 14-15. Lourdes president Michel Barrère noted that a capacity of 3,000 to 4,000 spectators is expected, potentially creating a record attendance and an electrifying atmosphere for the derby. Discussions with Tarbes officials and pending city hall approval facilitated the venue change to ensure safety and meet audience needs.

These decisions underline the challenges and careful planning involved in organizing the seventh round matches to accommodate club needs, safety, and fan engagement across France.