Maxime Baudonne, a 24-year-old flanker, is expected to stay with Racing 92 despite interest from other teams in the Top 14, France’s top rugby league. According to L’Équipe, a French sports newspaper, Baudonne and his club have reached an agreement in principle, though the length of his new contract has not been disclosed. Born in Bayonne, a city in the Basque region of southwestern France, Baudonne joined Racing 92’s youth team and has since become a key player. This season, he has started all four of Racing 92’s first five matches, playing 287 minutes and scoring a try. Last season, he appeared in 30 matches, starting 24 of them, showing his reliability and consistency. Baudonne’s ability to play in positions 6, 7, or 8 gives Racing 92 flexibility in its back row, a part of the team that often faces challenges due to injuries and player rotations. His presence provides stability and depth, which is crucial for a team competing at the top level of French rugby. Racing 92 is also working to finalize the future of Antoine Gibert, a 28-year-old scrum-half or fly-half who has received a contract renewal offer from the club. Gibert, who has spent his entire professional career at Racing 92 and has played over 200 matches for the team, is also being pursued by Bayonne, another Top 14 club. However, no final decision has been made. The club is confident about keeping Gibert, especially with the upcoming arrival of Thomas Ramos, a promising player expected to join in 2027. Ramos is likely to play more at fly-half, which could create competition for Gibert but not necessarily jeopardize his future. By retaining Baudonne, Racing 92 is securing part of its core before the 2027 transfer market, which is expected to be active. For Baudonne, staying with a club that has trained and supported him, and where he receives regular playing time, is a clear choice. His decision reflects the value of continuity and familiarity in professional sports.