Stadiums

Le Stade Toulousain plays its matches in two stadiums. The home ground, Ernest Wallon, built in 1980 but recently renovated, has a capacity of over 19,000 and hosts the majority of Top 14 matches. The Municipal Stadium, Stade de Toulouse, holds 38,000 and is primarily used by Toulouse’s football team, TFC. However, if you’re over for a Heineken Cup fixture, a play-off or a big match against rivals Stade Français, you’ll be watching the game here. Stade de Toulouse staged several 2007 Rugby World Cup matches and matches during the 1998 Football World Cup held in France.

Getting to the Match
Several options are open when it comes to getting to the match. If the game is played at Stade Ernest Wallon you can take a leisurely walk up the Canal de Brienne from Place St. Pierre or hop on the number 16 Bus to Sept Deniers. Either way you’ll find yourself swept along by the en route crowd. Alternatively, the metro to Barriere de Paris (ligne B) is met by a fleet of free ‘navette’ buses carrying fans back and forth.

Matches at the Stade de Toulouse are best approached by strolling along the paths above the river. The stadium is located on an island where La Garonne splits into two. You’ll see the blazing floodlights from the Pont Neuf. The metro alternative is to make your way to Arenes (ligne A) where another fleet of free ’navette’ buses meets the trains.

Stadium Etiquette
Whether you’re a travelling fan or a temporary Stade Toulousain supporter, you‘re up for a great experience whatever the result. Expect Mexican waves, continual chants, hand clapping, loud brass bands and flags passing over your heads. If you’re here to support your team in a H Cup clash, expect to be grossly outnumbered and be prepared to make some noise. Les Rouges et Noirs will outchant you but try to give them a run for their money!

The atmosphere in the stadium is electric and builds for up to an hour before kick-off. Outside the ground you’ll find bars selling beer, soft drinks, hot drinks and sandwiches merguez-frites. If you’re donning the opposing team’s jersey, expect photo opportunities with the wigged and painted Stade fans and shirt swapping requests. They may boo, whistle and try to distract your fly-half during the match but outside the ground, Toulouse supporters are extremely warm and welcoming towards visitors. Bon match!