The city of Lens will observe an extra public holiday on May 22nd following RC Lens’s 3-1 victory over Nice in the Coupe de France final, announced by the city’s mayor, Sylvain Robert. Robert made the declaration during celebrations at the Hôtel de Ville, as reported by L’Équipe, stating he intends to award the players the city’s medal engraved with the date of the final.
This marks the first Coupe de France title in the 120-year history of the club, a significant achievement for the northern French side. The victory also represents a successful period for manager Pierre Sage, who has guided Lens to this historic triumph. Robert also dedicated the win to Gervais Martel, a former club figure whose emotional reaction, according to Robert, resonated throughout France.
The decision to declare a public holiday underscores the importance of the Coupe de France win to the city of Lens and its supporters. Lens, traditionally a working-class city with a passionate football fanbase, has experienced periods of financial difficulty and relative underperformance in recent decades. This victory provides a significant boost to morale and civic pride.
Joseph Ougourlian, the current president of RC Lens, was also publicly thanked by Robert for his contribution to the club’s success. The celebrations following the final win were described as chaotic but joyous, reflecting the magnitude of the occasion for the club and its supporters. The Coupe de France trophy is reportedly being considered for display at the Louvre museum, further cementing its cultural significance.
