La Rochelle wins its second consecutive European Cup

The port of La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime) in a frenzy, full to bursting, Saturday 20 May, to celebrate the victory of the Stade Rochelais in the European Cup. At the end of the match, the explosion of joy gave some warmth to some who could not help but dive into the Old Port. “There’s a great atmosphere and I’m proud of them”said one supporter. Throughout the game the Leinster players dominated their opponents, after 12 minutes of play and three tries, the Irish were leading 17-0.

“Seeing everyone is just fun”

But with eight minutes to go, Georges-Henri Colombe saved his side with a last-gasp try. They then brandish the cup for the second consecutive year. In the middle of the night, hundreds of fans waited for their hero to return to the city’s airport to welcome them properly. “Seeing everyone is just fun. Thanks to them”, launches Reda Wardi, player of the Stade Rochelais. The party continues this Sunday too. Players are expected in the afternoon for a tour of the city by double-decker bus.