Toulon Métropole Var Handball is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Just months after facing a financial crisis that threatened its existence, the Ligue Butagaz Energie team is rebuilding, both on and off the court. With a new president at the helm and eight new players already announced, the club is attempting a rapid overhaul as it battles to secure its place in France’s top handball league. The changes approach after a tumultuous period marked by a leadership void and significant financial difficulties, but offer a glimmer of hope for the future of the team.
The crisis began on October 14, 2025, with the resignation of then-president Thierry Durand. His departure revealed a nearly €400,000 deficit and the inability to meet payroll obligations for the players, according to reports at the time. Former president Perrine Paul stepped back into the role, working to mobilize local economic support and stabilize the club’s finances. However, the situation was dire enough to result in a five-point deduction in December.
A turning point came with the arrival of new investment and, subsequently, a new president. Rodolphe Lerale, head of a local waste management company, officially took over in February. During a press conference, as reported by BFM Var, Lerale announced that the influx of capital had restored the club’s financial operations to “normal.” Despite the positive developments, the club initiated legal action to investigate the circumstances that led to the previous financial instability.
A New Era Under Lerale’s Leadership
The arrival of Lerale appears to have stabilized the situation, allowing the club to focus on building a competitive team. Rémi Faugères, the team’s head coach, has been retained, a testament to his perform this season despite the challenges. The team currently holds a narrow lead over the relegation zone, though a recent defeat to Plan-de-Cuques and a Strasbourg ATH victory over Paris 92 have increased the pressure with seven games remaining in the season. Faugères has signed a contract extension through 2028, signaling a commitment to long-term stability.
However, the coaching staff will witness a change, with Jessy Kramer, Faugères’ assistant and a former TMV player, departing at the end of the season, a move officially announced on March 10th.
Significant Roster Changes for the Future
Despite the ongoing fight for survival in the current season, Toulon is already looking ahead, announcing a remarkable eight new signings for the upcoming campaign. This level of activity is unusual for a team battling relegation, with other struggling clubs adopting a more cautious approach to roster changes – Saint-Maur, Sambre Avesnois, and Le Havre have made no announcements, although Strasbourg ATH has only confirmed one addition.
The overhaul touches nearly every position. Kyncia Pastour and Josefine Dragenberg have extended their contracts at pivot. In goal, Zazie Samzun is departing for Pessac, and Kristy Zimmerman is expected to follow suit, paving the way for the arrival of Andrea Novellan (from Plan-de-Cuques) and Tonje Lerstad (from Besançon). Clémentine Rival will depart on the left wing, with Laura Kanor (formerly of Brest), Nélya Goval (ex-Metz), and Louise Cavanié forming a new trio. Manon Pellerin has renewed her contract on the right wing and will be joined by former French international Marie Prouvensier, who arrives after three seasons with Paris 92. Eva Giustiniani, who joined TMV last year, will only spend one season with the club, while the future of Mathilde Cayez remains uncertain.
The backcourt will also see significant changes. Captain Mari Finstad is retiring at the end of the season, and will be joined in departure by Sofia Deen and Beatriz Sousa, who has signed with Plan-de-Cuques for the next two seasons. The club has added Danish players Maja Eiberg and Swiss player Daphne Gautschi to bolster the backcourt. Gautschi returns to the Ligue Butagaz Energie after a season in Romania. Sousa’s position will be filled by German international Lisa Borutta, who played for VfL Oldenburg this season, scoring 20 goals in the European League. Borutta will play alongside Norah Folituu, who has also extended her contract. The futures of Thea Stankiewicz and Manon Chabaud, both demi-centres, remain unconfirmed.
The influx of experienced players, including those with international backgrounds, suggests Toulon is aiming for more than just survival. If the team can secure its Ligue Butagaz Energie status, a mid-table finish could be within reach. However, the immediate focus remains on avoiding relegation. The final stretch of the season will be crucial, with upcoming matches against fellow relegation contenders Saint-Maur, Strasbourg, and Le Havre.
Everything is changing at Toulon, but the pressure of a late-season relegation battle – a familiar scenario for the club this decade – remains constant.
The team’s next critical match is scheduled for [Date to be confirmed], against [Opponent to be confirmed]. Updates on player signings and match schedules can be found on the official Ligue Butagaz Energie website: https://www.ligue-butagaz-energie.fr/.
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