Stade Chanzy hosts international rugby match

Stade Chanzy, a rugby stadium in Angoulême, will host its first international match on Saturday, November 21, 2026, when Zimbabwe faces Chile. This event marks a significant milestone for Charentes rugby, as the stadium has never before hosted a match between national teams.

Nations Cup expands rugby opportunities

The match is part of the Nations Cup, a new tournament launched this year to give more teams outside the global rugby elite a chance to compete. The tournament includes twelve teams and aims to provide regular preparation for major international events like the World Cup.

Zimbabwe and Chile qualify for 2027 World Cup

Both Zimbabwe and Chile have already secured their spots in the 2027 World Cup in Australia. Zimbabwe will make its first World Cup appearance since 1991 after winning the 2025 Africa Cup final. Chile qualified for the World Cup for the second consecutive time by defeating Samoa in September 2025.

Stade Chanzy's long history

Stade Chanzy has a history dating back to 1910, when the Sporting Club d'Angoulême played its first matches there. The club's first victory, against Cognac, is a cherished memory in the region. More than a century later, the stadium will welcome new teams and new colors.

Stadium upgrades and future plans

The stadium has undergone several upgrades, including the addition of a third stand in 2018 and the installation of a synthetic pitch in 2023. With around 8,000 seats, it is prepared to host a different kind of atmosphere than the usual Pro D2 matches. After the Zimbabwe-Chile match, the club plans to broadcast France-Argentina, extending the rugby evening.

Local fans connect with distant rugby nations

For fans in Angoulême, this event offers a chance to support two teams that are both looking ahead to the 2027 World Cup. The stadium, traditionally known for Pro D2 matches, is now welcoming rugby from much further afield, marking a new chapter for the region’s rugby community.