ESTAC Troyes announced on Friday that veteran forward Renaud Ripart has extended his contract for another season, tying him to the club until June 2027, and he was back on the training pitch the same morning.

The 33‑year‑old, who netted eight goals in 26 matches last campaign after returning from injury, smiled broadly as he ran drills, already looking sharp. ESTAC sit top of Ligue 2 with 67 points from 34 games (20W‑7D‑7L), recent form LWWWL, five points clear of Le Mans, and have scored 60 goals while conceding 33.

What does the new deal mean for ESTAC Troyes?

Ripart’s contract now runs through the 2026‑27 season, giving the club a proven goal‑scorer and a leader who has logged 154 Ligue 1 appearances, 29 goals and 10 assists. His experience is expected to help a squad that has not added any new signings this window. The club’s statement highlighted his "engagement, humility and sense of the collective" as key attributes for the dressing‑room.

How will his Ligue 1 background influence the promotion push?

Having played at the highest French level, Ripart brings tactical awareness and composure that younger teammates lack. His ability to hold up the ball and link play should free up emerging talents like Moussa Diaby to exploit spaces on the wing. In a league where ESTAC already lead by five points, that extra quality could turn tight matches into comfortable wins.

When did the extension happen and what were the terms?

The club confirmed the extension on Thursday, after a brief period when Ripart was a free agent. While financial details were not disclosed, the wording "for a season additional" signals a short‑term commitment, likely with performance‑related bonuses tied to the club’s promotion ambitions.

What’s next for Ripart and ESTAC Troyes?

With preseason underway, Ripart will feature in the upcoming friendly against FC Metz on July 20, a test that should reveal his match fitness. If he maintains his scoring touch, ESTAC could rely on him for double‑digit goals this season, a realistic target given the team’s current 60‑goal tally.

The club’s hierarchy remains confident that Ripart’s blend of experience and work ethic will help keep ESTAC Troyes at the summit of Ligue 2 and push the side over the line into Ligue 1.