Major SHOCK as two of French rugby’s biggest clubs announce merger

In stunning news on Monday, Top 14 clubs Racing 92 and Stade Français have announced that they will merge to form a new club next season.

Racing, Top 14 champions in 2016, and Stade, champions in 2015, have rocked French rugby with the announcement.

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A press conference is due to take place at 16:00 local time (15:00 GMT).

“This association, effective from next season, will give birth to a new club, which will preserve the roots of Racing 92, like those of Stade Francais, and multiply the means dedicated to the youth and French rugby,” read a statement.