Stade Rennais FC chairman Nicolas de Tavernost has confirmed the club will appeal a decision over the return fixture against Paris Saint-Germain and revealed plans to revive a new stadium project. He made the announcements during an appearance on RMC's After Foot show on Tuesday, as reported by Stade Rennais Online.
De Tavernost stated the club will challenge the LFP Competitions Commission's ruling that the return match be played at the Parc des Princes. He argues the decision contradicts the €150,000 fine imposed on PSG for failing to meet pitch usability obligations. "We believe the text must be applied and that the commission did not apply the text correctly," the chairman said. While Stade Rennais FC agreed to host the first leg at short notice, he insists this did not mean accepting an automatic reversal for the return fixture.
What is the new stadium plan?
Asked about growing club revenue, Nicolas de Tavernost put the construction of a new stadium back on the agenda. "The Pinault family is ready to invest in a stadium in Stade Rennais FC," he stated. This would not be an expansion of Roazhon Park but a completely new ground, a project discussed for years with the city council. "We will talk again with the city council to see if it's possible to restart this stadium project," he announced. This follows the recent inauguration of the new Piverdière 2 training centre, a €40+ million investment. The squad boasts key players like Estéban Lepaul, who has scored 4 goals this season, and new signing Boulaye Dia.
What are the sporting ambitions for SRFC?
The chairman set clear targets for the current campaign. "The objective is first to be in Europe, that's for sure, and as close as possible to the Champions League," he said. Finishing outside the top five would be a disappointment. De Tavernost sees an opportunity for Stade Rennais FC, highlighting the quality of the squad, coach Franck Haise, and sporting director Loïc Désiré. Stade Rennais FC, currently competing in the Europa League, faces a busy schedule. You can check the upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page.
How was the summer transfer window?
In the aftermath of the transfer deadline, de Tavernost gave a positive assessment of the club's recruitment. He praised the work done as "well executed" and confirmed the arrival of Boulaye Dia, who had passed his medical. The club's model relies on its academy and developing young talent, a necessity in French football's tough financial climate. Regarding Estéban Lepaul, the chairman denied any departure: "I never heard about Lepaul leaving." The striker, described as very committed, continues his strong season. The current squad composition is available on our squad page.
What is the Pinault family's commitment?
Appointed in the spring, Nicolas de Tavernost reiterated the "very, very strong" attachment of the Pinault family to the club, linked to their Breton roots. His role is to be the link between the shareholder and the operational management team led by Arnaud Pouille. The message is clear: "Stade Rennais FC is not for sale." This stability is an asset as the club enters a key phase of the season. Stade Rennais FC's next Ligue 1 match is against RC Lens on 13 September 2026.
