Seems inconceivable (and probably is), but the top two Paris rugby clubs are to do just that. Racing 92 and Stade Francais are the two latest winners of the Top 14, the French premier rugby competition, yet have decided to merge from the start of next season.
For financial reasons according to the clubs' directors, neither club operating at a profit. The pressure on top 14 clubs to sign overseas stars and pay big wages if they are to compete with the likes of Toulon, Toulouse and Clermont Auvergne has put smaller clubs under strain, even though the two Paris clubs have been successful in domestic and European competition.
It is not clear where the clubs will play their home matches and who will take the final place in the Top 14 as there will be one club fewer next season.
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