The view from France on Relegation

[Neils]

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2022/may/10/finn-russell-claims-relegation-threat-helps-strengthen-top-14-clubs-in-europe

[Heathen]

I think the fact that they have seriously more wedge to attract top players, rather than the threat of relegation, is a more telling factor!

[Neils]

I think the fact that they have seriously more wedge to attract top players, rather than the threat of relegation, is a more telling factor!

The figure for France quoted was £8.5M and ours £5M. If those figures are correct then the difference isn't as marked as most think. We add a Marquee (in Bristol's case at least £1M) plus International and Academy payments then the difference shrinks considerable. Do the French play by the rules - have they ever! Personally I think the increasing difference is French teams are now mostly French - See Tibo going back as an example.

[andermt]

I think the fact that they have seriously more wedge to attract top players, rather than the threat of relegation, is a more telling factor!

The figure for France quoted was £8.5M and ours £5M. If those figures are correct then the difference isn't as marked as most think. We add a Marquee (in Bristol's case at least £1M) plus International and Academy payments then the difference shrinks considerable. Do the French play by the rules - have they ever! Personally I think the increasing difference is French teams are now mostly French - See Tibo going back as an example.

But doesn't the French number include all staff, not just players?

[Peej]

Removing relegation hasn't stopped the dross served up at the bottom of the Prem this year, or 60% of Super Rugby Pacific matches