Magnifique! The Toulousain launches on CounterPress promising "intelligent, insightful, on-the-ground coverage" of the French Top 14

The Toulousain will launch on CounterPress in August, with a mandate to deliver intelligent, insightful, on-the-ground coverage courtesy of Toulouse-based Richard Dixon.

Richard’s interest in French rugby goes back to playing for Oxford University against Mont de Marsan, Biarritz and La Teste, more years ago than he cares to remember.

After graduating, he played for Bergerac in the Perigord to confirm his fascination. When coaching took over, he was introduced to Pierre Villepreux and his Le Plaisir du Mouvement methodology. He was instantly hooked.

The Toulousain members can look forward to match reports, player interviews, player profiles, press conferences, deep dives into other French rugby clubs, analysis of the big topics of the day, podcasts and the opportunity to come to France and meet key people in the French rugby world. If it’s happening, it will be covered.

Richard said: "We don't need to get into arguments about whose competition is 'the best'.

"We can be in no doubt that the rugby played in the Top 14, in Pro D2 and beyond is the result of huge amounts of passion and commitment, and is part of the fabric of French society.

"Much of it is of very high quality, often breathtaking, and I think it deserves deeper coverage for the anglophone audience.

"The first time I went for a haircut in Bergerac as a 21-year-old, I was offered a pastis at 11 o'clock in the morning, and was told that payment was not required as I was l'Anglais who played rugby. At this point I began to understand the place of rugby in French culture.

"This will be a labour of love for me, like so many of CounterPress's contributors, and I can't wait to begin engaging with my new audience. I really want to hear from them, with feedback, suggestions and ideas."

The Toulousain's early interest waiting list is now open, ahead of a full launch next month.

French rugby obsessives keen to explore the platform can secure an exclusive discount on membership by adding their details to the mailing list today.

The site is the latest in a succession of outlets covering a variety of sports to make CounterPress their home.

CounterPress offers the technical infrastructure and industry knowledge and support that journalists and creators need to build their own media brand.

Co-founder Sam Morshead said: "Richard's knowledge and love of rugby is limitless, and The Toulousain will be a fascinating example of a niche subject finding a home on CounterPress.

"Expect eloquent, incisive commentary on the state of Stade Toulousain and the wider Top 14, from Richard’s seat at the heart of the action out in France.

"I'm delighted CounterPress could help make the project possible for Richard, and look forward to supporting him in his journey as an indy media title owner."