ES Troyes AC

Formation

Espérance Sportive Troyes Aube Champagne (ESTAC), commonly known as Troyes, is a professional football club based in Troyes, France. Founded in 1986, it emerged as the third professional club from the city, following AS Troyes-Savinienne and Troyes AF. The club is part of the City Football Group and has established itself in French football, competing primarily in Ligue 1 and Ligue 2.

Historical Context

The roots of football in Troyes date back to 1900 with the formation of Union Sportive Troyenne (UST). This club underwent several transformations, merging with AS Savinienne in 1931 to form the Association Sportive Troyenne et Savinienne (ASTS). ASTS turned professional in 1935 and made its way to the top tier of French football, reaching the Première Division in the 1954-55 season. Under the management of Roger Courtois, the club enjoyed a golden era, reaching the Coupe de France final in 1956, although they lost to Sedan. However, financial difficulties led to the club's decline, and it eventually disappeared from professional football by the end of the 1962-63 season.

Resurgence and Achievements

After a period without a major club in Troyes, a new club was established in 1967, initially named Troyes Omnisports. Over the years, the club has seen various successes, particularly in Ligue 2, where they have won the championship three times: in 2014-15, 2020-21, and 2025-26. Additionally, they claimed the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2001, marking their presence on the European stage. Today, ESTAC continues to compete in Ligue 1, playing its home matches at the Stade de l'Aube, and remains a significant part of the local sporting culture.