Dragons announce stadium move

Friday 29th January 2010

Catalans Dragons will stage four of their 2010 home Engage Super League fixtures at the ground of Rugby Union neighbours USAP to allow for the renovation and expansion of their own Gilbert Brutus stadium.

The club say Perpignan City Council has confirmed to them that the new development would begin in March and the work will include the construction of a new stand with 1,500 seats, a new club shop, a corporate entertainiung area, a restaurant and a bar

The Dragons say that, because of the building, the Gilbert Brutus stadium will be too small for their largest crowds of the season and the club will relocate the four games to the nearby Aime Giral stadium, just a short drive across the city of Peprignan. 

"The official news of the start of our stadium renovation is the best news since the Catalans Dragons exist. Thanks to the new facilities of the stand, our club will reach another level which will allow us to become one of the top Super League clubs", said Catalans chairman Bernard Guasch.

"Thanks to thoses facilities, our budget will increase while we have been in stagnation for two years due to the low capacity of our stadium, the lack of hospitalities boxes, and the size of our club shop".

He added, "This stand will be a huge boost for French Rugby League and I want to thank everyone involved in the decision process including the Maire of Perpignan, the Président of the Council and the Président of the Region.

"French public powers believe in our club and in our sport and I truly believe they are absolutly right. Furthermore, during the renovation works we will play our biggest games at Aime Giral stadium, one of the top rugby stadiums in the whole France.

"I look forward welcoming Super League champions Leeds Rhinos on easter monday for our first game in Aime Giral. Bernard Guasch, Catalans Dragons chairman.

Catalans games to be staged at Aime Giral stadium:

Dragons vs Leeds: Monday 5 April
Dragons vs Bradford: Saturday 10 April
Dragons vs Wigan: Saturday 4 July
Dragons vs Warrington: Saturday 27 July