The Marseille Blue Stars welcome regional rivals, the Aix-en-Provence Argonautes to open the 2026 D1 Elite season, featuring a compelling contrast between Marseille’s defensive reinforcements and Aix-en-Provence’s revamped offensive approach in this heated Bouches-du-Rhône derby.
Blue Stars seek offensive revival
After missing the 2025 playoffs due to offensive struggles, Marseille returns with dual-threat quarterback Hadrien Lynda leading the attack and a defense strengthened by NCAA Division I linebacker Sterling Sheffield. The Blue Stars aim to immediately demonstrate their improved balance and playoff intentions against familiar opponents.
Argonautes target return to relevance
Having narrowly avoided relegation last season despite offensive talent, Aix-en-Provence begins anew with American quarterback Gabriel Fernandez and coaching adjustments designed to maximize their potential. The Argonautes hope to replicate last season’s Week 2 upset of Marseille while establishing early credibility for their playoff aspirations.
This regional showdown offers both teams an immediate measuring stick—Marseille testing their reinforced roster against a known rival, and Aix-en-Provence validating their offseason changes against defensive-minded opposition.