Since then, RATP has been putting this commitment at the service of its business and in support of the development of rugby: demonstrating its expertise by providing transport solutions, including the official French rugby team coach; a tool of its prevention policy to fight anti-social behaviour through the promotion of rugby to young children; and creating an unmissable event as part of its policy to bring life to its network by making it a showcase for rugby.
RATP and rugby is also...
Partner of Racing 92
In 2001, the rugby section of US Métro, the RATP’s long-standing sports club, merged with Racing Club de France rugby union club to become Racing-Métro 92, now a professional outfit playing in France’s premier division, the Top 14.
Rugby Wednesdays
Created in 2007, Rugby Wednesdays is a social initiative aimed at young people from disadvantaged areas of the Île-de-France region. The aim of the scheme is to promote greater social harmony, both on public transport and in everyday life. It is based on the core values of rugby, such as respect. Previous editions have proved successful, allowing RATP to teach more than 1,500 children about the rules that make for a harmonious community.
The scheme comprises three phases:
- School visits by RATP prevention staff;
- Practical rugby sessions at the Marcoussis National Rugby Centre, with coaching from the Île-de-France Rugby Committee’s regional technical managers.
- Trips on the official team bus of Les Bleus to rugby workshops at the national team’s training grounds, giving the youngsters the chance to spend a few moments living the lives of the French team.
Held between March and June every year since 2007, this operation involves roughly 20 middle schools in the Île-de-France region. It uses the educational side of rugby to promote living more harmoniously together on public transport
