Stéphane Place (in Bordeaux) / Photo credits: Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP
Every day, Europe 1 looks at an idea or an everyday problem. And today is the start of the Rugby World Cup! In the southwest, land of ovals, many shake up their schedules so as not to miss important meetings. But if the final is still far away, the joy of experiencing this great competition is already perceptible among enthusiasts.
Concentrated in front of their TV, at home, with family, with friends around a barbecue or around the giant screen of the rugby village – which will open its doors this Friday evening on the quays of Bordeaux – all these Girondins will not miss a second of this World Cup. Pierre, a great enthusiast, salivating in anticipation. “It’s clearly going to be the priority. Generally when there’s a match the phone will be off. Beers, a bar, a good screen. I’m 46 years old and I think I’m still as full as if I were 18”, he confides, excited.
“It is a party”
The atmosphere, beyond the result or the quality of the game, is what counts for Pascal who will attend this Saturday in the stands in Bordeaux the match between the Irish and the Romanians. “It’s a party with the Irish spectators. In rugby, generally the spectators are much friendlier when they make the effort to go to another country to support their team, they are indeed much more festive,” notes the supporter .
No ticket to go see a match but a total enthusiasm that Louisette willingly shares at the microphone of Europe 1. “I can’t wait! I’m going to watch her on TV, all the time. It’s not the same mentality as the football. I like it, that’s it!”, she exclaims. And almost everywhere in the region fan zones will open this Friday evening to follow the World Cup matches in a festive atmosphere. And for the opening match, France faces the formidable All Blacks this Friday. Kick-off for this duel against the New Zealanders at 9 p.m., at the Stade de France.