PSG relocates opener as French heatwave wreaks havoc on home pitch

The French champions announced the relocation of their season-opening league fixture after extreme temperatures left the playing surface at their home stadium unsuitable for competitive play. The heatwave, which has gripped the country in recent weeks, has caused significant deterioration to the pitch at Parc des Princes, prompting the decision to shift the match.

The move to Rennes marks a rare departure from PSG's normal home arrangements and underscores the growing impact of severe weather conditions on sporting schedules across Europe. Such relocations are typically reserved for exceptional circumstances, reflecting the extent of the damage sustained during the prolonged heat event.

The decision ensures the match can proceed as scheduled while allowing Parc des Princes adequate time for necessary repairs and recovery. Groundskeeping teams have been working to address the damage caused by the exceptionally high temperatures that have affected venues across France during the preseason period.

Club officials did not immediately specify a timeline for when the pitch would be restored to full operational status or whether additional fixtures might be affected by the ongoing weather conditions.