“Georges Vuillermet who?” I imagine that’s what you’re thinking. Well, the answer lies within this very ground. Welcome to Stade Vuillermet.
This stadium stands as a testament to Lyon’s rich sporting history. It’s named for Georges Vuillermet. He was a celebrated rugby player who proudly represented Football Club de Lyon.
For many years Stade Vuillermet was the cherished home of Lyon OU. This is Lyon’s top rugby union team. Imagine the roar of the crowds. Picture the bone-jarring tackles. Feel the electric atmosphere as the LOU Rugby team battled their rivals. This was their domain until November 2011.
The stadium’s story began long before its modern name. It was initially known as Stade de la Plaine. The stadium was inaugurated here on Route d’Heyrieux. Back then it served as the home ground for Racing Club de Lyon. Alexandre Audouze-Tabourin was the architect who designed it.
In 1902, Lyon Olympique formed from the merger of Rugby Club de Lyon and Racing Club de Lyon. They adopted the Rouge et Noir colors we know today. However, they moved in 1907 to the benefit of Football Club de Lyon. The LOU eventually returned to Stade Vuillermet in the 1950s.
Before its relocation to Matmut Stadium, Stade Vuillermet could hold around 4822 passionate fans. Today, after the demolition of its oldest stand due to safety concerns, the capacity is reduced to 3000. The stadium now has three stands. Two of them are covered.
Though LOU Rugby has moved on, Stade Vuillermet remains a vital hub for local sports. It is now home to the amateur football teams of Football Club de Lyon. Both the women’s and men’s teams proudly represent their club here.
But it is not just about rugby and football. In 2017, Stade Vuillermet hosted an international drone competition. In 2023, FC Lyon planned to restructure the site. The goal was to create a unique complex. It would combine sports, social, and environmental aspects.
So, as you stand here at Stade Vuillermet, consider its enduring legacy. It echoes with the cheers of rugby fans. It also carries the dreams of young footballers. This stadium continues to evolve. It adapts to the needs of the community. It remains a vibrant part of Lyon’s sporting identity.