Toulon will look to go all the way after a memorable campaign - domestically and in Europe - last season.
Top 14 title remains the priority
After finishing second on point difference in the regular season, Toulon lost to eventual champions Clermont in the semi-final before losing to Cardiff in the Amlin Challenge Cup final.
Nevertheless, last season must be considered a success considering it was only Toulon's second back in France's top flight. Toulon remained unbeaten at home in both competitions.
Once again, though, owner Mourad Boudjellal has brought out his cheque book and made the headlines. Australia's most-capped loose forward, a legendary All Black prop and a World Cup England wing have been added to an already star-studded squad.
A first season in the Heineken Cup will be more than just a distraction but the Top 14 title is their priority and an achievable goal.
Coach
Philippe Saint-André has brought with him a wealth of experience as a coach and a player. His arrival from Sale corresponded to a turnaround in form and much of last season's success must be attributed to his guidance. A fantastic counter-attacker back in his playing days, Saint-André has personally promised us his team will play expansive rugby this season.
Captain
Springbok loose Joe van Niekerk has become a hero in Toulon. In his own words, 'Big Joe' leads by example and has a lot to do with the remarkable team spirit in the Toulon camp.
Ones to watch
Take your pick. There is no lack of stars in the Toulon line-up but we reckon
George Smith and
Carl Hayman will add the little bit extra that the Toulon pack needs to get it's hands on a trophy.
Home ground
Stade Félix-Mayol sits right in the heart of Toulon, both literally and figuratively. It's a cauldron, a nightmare for visitors despite only holding 13,670 spectators. The stadium is named after a singer who left the rights to his songs to the club, the proceeds from which paid for the stadium.
Transfers
In: Christophe Samson (Clermont), Carl Hayman (Newcastle), Benjamin Lapeyre (Albi), Dean Schofield (Sale), Rudi Wulf (Blues), Thierry Brana (Montpellier), George Smith (Brumbies) , J-P.Genevois (Bourgoin), Tonga Lea'aetoa (Bayonne), Mehdi Merabet (Racing-Métro 92), Paul Sackey (Wasps).
Out:: Sonny Bill Williams (New Zealand), Ross Skeate (Sharks), Luke Rooney (Melbourne), Tana Umaga (Counties Manukau), Philippe Fitzgerald (retired), Esteban Lozada (Edimbourg), Tim Ryan (Newcastle)
