As anticipation continues to build for the highly anticipated opening match between France and New Zealand on September 8, rugby fans are in for a treat with the unveiling of the largest-ever Official Tournament Shop dedicated to the Rugby World Cup. Set to welcome visitors from August 22, this colossal retail haven will be located at the iconic Place de la Concorde in the heart of Paris.

To mark the grand opening, Legends, the operators behind this monumental venture, have an exclusive surprise in store for the first 100 shoppers who enter at 4:00 PM local time on Tuesday. These lucky patrons will stand a chance to win tickets to the electrifying opening match and other exciting retail merchandise. Additional delights await these early birds, including appearances by player ambassadors and the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup.

Encompassing a sprawling area of 1,000 square meters, this store sets the record as the largest-ever store established for a Rugby World Cup event. It also claims the title of being the most expansive of all official stores operating throughout France during the tournament period.

Opening its doors from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, with extended hours until 11:00 PM on match days, this shop will serve as a haven for rugby enthusiasts, offering them the unparalleled opportunity to peruse the entire official collection of Rugby World Cup France 2023.

Returning to France for the first time since 2007, this edition of the tournament has already achieved ticket sales records, foreshadowing its status as the most celebrated iteration yet. With millions of rugby aficionados from both France and around the globe coming together, the stage is set for a monumental event.

Commencing on September 8, the Place de la Concorde will not only witness thrilling matches but also be home to the official Paris Rugby Village. This expansive and free-entry space will host match screenings and an array of sports and cultural experiences, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.

At the heart of the square, the official store will provide supporters from diverse nations with a platform to engage in pop-up events, don their team colors, and secure a tangible keepsake along with cherished memories of an event that doubles as rugby's bicentennial celebration.

Among the offerings available for purchase will be replica jerseys for every participating team, official Gilbert match balls, 20 Nations products, and a wide array of accessories and souvenirs, ranging from berets and keyrings to miniature replicas of the illustrious Webb Ellis Cup. Additionally, a new classic lifestyle and rugbywear collection is set to be unveiled.

Michel Poussau, World Rugby’s Executive Director for Rugby World Cup France 2023, expressed the sentiment behind the venture, stating, "This store will be more than a simple retail space. Located right in the center of Paris, it will be a place for fans, tourists, and visitors to come together and experience a taste of the unique Rugby World Cup atmosphere."

Christophe Rousseau, Director of Operations at Legends, the sports retail specialists operating the official Rugby World Cup France 2023 stores, conveyed the company's enthusiasm, saying, "We are particularly thrilled at Legends Global Merchandise to have designed and to operate the largest Official Store ever built for a Rugby World Cup!" He further emphasized that this store is a gateway for fans to immerse themselves in the unparalleled range and atmosphere of the France 2023 edition.

As excitement soars and the countdown to the opening match continues, rugby enthusiasts and visitors alike can look forward to a one-of-a-kind experience at the Official Tournament Shop, nestled in the heart of Paris' iconic Place de la Concorde.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]