Racing Club de France: The Biggest Club You’ve Never Heard Of

In the annals of French football, Racing Club de France occupies a curious place—a club with a storied history, legendary players, and yet a dramatic fall from grace.

Once a powerhouse in the French top flight, Racing Club’s decline has left it a shadow of its former glory. For football shirt collectors, Racing represents a nostalgic dive into a bygone era, where iconic blue and white kits symbolized dominance on the pitch. They also have one of the most slept on shirts of this season and is a throw back to their history.

This article delves into the rise and fall of Racing Club de France, shining a light on a club that deserves far more recognition in footballing lore.

Grab your 2024 Racing Club de France home shirt here.

A Glorious Beginning

Founded in 1882, Racing Club de France was among the pioneering clubs of French football, becoming one of the original members of Ligue 1 in 1932. Known for their striking sky blue and white shirts, Racing quickly established themselves as one of the most fashionable and formidable teams in the league. The pinnacle of their success came in 1936, when they won their first (and only) Ligue 1 title, followed by consecutive Coupe de France triumphs in 1936 and 1939. These were the halcyon days, with Racing combining elegance on the field with dominance in the domestic game.

The Stars of Racing Club

Throughout their history, Racing Club de France boasted a roster of exceptional talent. Laurent Fournier, who later managed the club, began his playing career there in the 1980s. During their 1950s revival, they fielded legends such as Roger Marche, affectionately known as "Le Sanglier des Ardennes," one of France's greatest defenders. The club also attracted high-profile international stars in later years, including Enzo Francescoli, the Uruguayan maestro who brought a touch of South American flair to the Parisian outfit during the 1986-87 season.  Alongside French legend David Ginola.

The Fall from Grace

Racing's decline began in the late 1960s as financial difficulties and inconsistent performances plagued the club. Despite a brief resurgence in the 1980s, fuelled by the backing of fashion tycoon Jean-Luc Lagardère, Racing failed to capitalise on their newfound resources.

The ambitious project to create a Parisian superclub faltered, and by the late 1990s, the club had plummeted down the French football pyramid. Today, Racing Club de France competes in the lower tiers of French football, a stark contrast to their glory days.

A Legacy Through Shirts

For collectors, Racing Club de France's shirts are treasures that tell the story of their highs and lows. The iconic sky blue and white stripes of the 1930s kits exude timeless elegance, while the Adidas designs of the 1980s capture a moment when Racing aspired to reclaim their place among France’s elite. These shirts serve as a tangible connection to a club that, despite its struggles, has left an indelible mark on French football history. 

This season Hummel have create the shirt which pays tribute to the clubs heritage.

Racing Club de France may not hold the prestige it once did, but its history, players, and iconic shirts continue to captivate football romantics and collectors. If you're looking to own a piece of Racing’s legacy, explore our collection of authentic vintage Racing Club de France shirts at Football Shirt Collective and celebrate the story of this remarkable club.