Régis Montagne explains planned Clermont exit for Toulon

Clermont will lose France prop Régis Montagne to Toulon at the end of the 2026-27 season, with the move confirmed for 2027-28. The 25-year-old has now explained that the decision followed concerns about Clermont’s sporting direction and the support behind its ambitions.

Montagne said he held discussions only with Clermont and Toulon while considering his future, leaving other options aside. He had joined Clermont in 2024 after beginning his professional career at Grenoble and had kept open the possibility of extending his stay in Auvergne. Toulon’s project and the strength of its interest ultimately persuaded the nine-cap France international to choose a new challenge.

A lengthy discussion with part of Clermont’s management became a turning point. Montagne felt he did not receive the answers or the message needed to make him remain. He also questioned the club’s ambitions and the resources available to reach them, while believing Toulon offered what was missing. He described the move as a sporting decision and said the financial proposals from both clubs were similar.

The departure of Clermont prop Etienne Falgoux also affected him. Falgoux, who had helped Montagne after his arrival in Auvergne, left for Pro D2 club Nice when his contract was not renewed. Montagne said he respected the decision by Clermont’s leaders but disagreed with how his former teammate’s exit was handled, adding tension before his own departure.