Arlanc Secures Historic Double in Coupe de France de Pétanque
ARLANC, 19 February 2026 – The village of Arlanc, situated in the heart of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park, is celebrating a landmark sporting achievement this week. The local club, Pétanque Arlancoise, has successfully defended its national title, securing a historic “double” in the Coupe de France de Pétanque finals held in Douai.
Sporting Glory: Arlanc Dominates in Douai
Led by legends of the sport Philippe Suchaud and Christian Fazzino, Arlanc entered the “Grand 8” final stages as the heavy favourites. The team demonstrated clinical precision throughout the tournament, culminating in a decisive victory over Saint-Tropez in the final. The win marks Suchaud’s tenth national cup title and Fazzino’s fifth, further cementing Arlanc’s reputation as a powerhouse in French pétanque.
The victory follows the club’s European success in November last year, proving the Auvergne-based side to be the dominant force in the sport. “It is the victory of a group of friends,” remarked Fazzino following the trophy presentation in the Hauts-de-France region.
Heritage and Tourism: The Heart of Puy-de-Dôme
Beyond its sporting prowess, Arlanc remains a significant cultural hub in the Puy-de-Dôme department. Located 55 km east of Issoire and 13 km north of La Chaise-Dieu, the village offers a blend of medieval history and botanical innovation. Key landmarks include the Castle of Mons, a medieval fortress transformed into a 17th-century Medici-style villa, and the Eglise Romane Antonine, a 9th-century church featuring a rare dome with squinches.
For nature enthusiasts, the Jardin pour la Terre (Garden for the Earth) provides a unique “open-air map” experience. The garden is designed in the shape of a world map, where visitors can explore flora from different continents, following the paths of great explorers.
Key Facts and Regional Data
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Region | Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (Puy-de-Dôme) |
| Major Sporting Achievement | Coupe de France de Pétanque Winners (2025, 2026) |
| Top Attractions | Jardin pour la Terre, Castle of Mons, Notre-Dame Church |
| Outdoor Activities | 700 km of MTB trails (Ambert-Crêtes du Forez area) |
| Recent Seismic Activity | Minor tremors recorded near Roanne (M1.6) on 18 February 2026 |
Local Economy and Community News
While the village celebrates its sporting success, the nearby commune of Saint-Alyre-d’Arlanc is seeking new investment for its local hospitality sector. The “Gaspard des Montagnes” café-restaurant is currently seeking a new operator, with the local council offering a competitive monthly rent of €530, including accommodation, in an effort to maintain essential services in the rural community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the key players for the Arlanc pétanque team?
The team is headlined by Philippe Suchaud and Christian Fazzino, two of the most decorated players in the history of the sport. They were instrumental in Arlanc’s 2026 Coupe de France victory.
What is the Jardin pour la Terre?
It is a large botanical garden in Arlanc designed to represent the Earth’s continents. It focuses on the relationship between geography, history, and plant life, encouraging visitors to interact with the displays.
How far is Arlanc from major cities?
Arlanc is located approximately 55 km east of Issoire and is well-positioned between the Monts du Forez and the Livradois mountains, making it a central point for exploring the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.