A legendary figure of French rugby is bringing his aura and experience to the Principality: Jean-Pierre Rives has officially joined AS Monaco Rugby as the club’s honorary president. Known for his fearless style and unforgettable blood-stained image that became an emblem of rugby’s raw spirit, Rives now adds his name to Monaco’s growing sporting ambitions.
The 72-year-old former flanker — affectionately dubbed “Casque d’Or” for his trademark golden curls and all-out commitment on the pitch — made his mark with Stade Toulousain and the French national team during the late 1970s and early ’80s. Twice a Grand Slam winner in the Five Nations, Rives earned 59 caps for France and remains one of the game’s most respected and charismatic figures.
Though his presence around the AS Monaco Rugby club wasn’t entirely new, his appointment now cements a deeper connection. While some may be surprised to see such a high-profile name align with a club currently playing in France’s Fédérale 2 division, insiders at ASM see it as a natural evolution in their ongoing development.
Promoted to Fédérale 2 in 2022, AS Monaco Rugby is aiming even higher — with a clear objective of reaching Fédérale 1 in the coming seasons. As the 2025–2026 campaign prepares to kick off on Sunday, September 14 against UMS Rugby Montélimar, the club will rely not only on its players but on the leadership and inspiration that figures like Rives bring to the table.
Alongside him, a new coaching duo has been installed: Nicolas Bonnet and former Georgian international David Bolgashvili, who will take charge of steering the team through what promises to be a pivotal season. With ambition on the rise and a legend now officially in their corner, AS Monaco Rugby is making it clear — the Principality has serious plans on the rugby front.
