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Grenoble have been relegated to the Pro D2. The team’s 59-18 home loss against Clermont today means the club cannot obtain enough points from remaining matches to remain in the Top 14. The club joins Bayonne in returning to the second division.
Previously Grenoble were relegated to the Pro D2 in 2005 and even played in the Fédérale 1. The club won promotion back to the Top 14 in 2012. Playing regularly at the Stade des Alpes the team has been strongly supported and, generally competitive. The tight league that is the 2016-2017 season and injuries have ultimately seen Grenoble fall.
A return to the Top 14 is highly likely. Based on budget and large city status the club stands a solid chance at returning with immediate effect.
This season Grenoble does not have players from the Americas on its roster. The club, nonetheless, has been home to noteworthy players in the past. Canadian veteran Jamie Cudmore played for Grenoble in 2004-2005. The club has also been home to Pumas Diego Albanese, José Orengo, Federico Todeschini, Ezequiel Jurado and current starting fullback Joaquín Tuculet.
