Though it is little known amongst rugby supporters generally, the club was first named ASM - the initials standing for Association Sportive Michelin, whose early purpose was to be a recreational sports amenity for Michelin's own employees.
Based at the 18,000 capacity Parc des Sports Marcel Michelin, the club has developed considerably in the intervening years and is now ranked as one of the world's leading rugby clubs whose fame and reputation could be said to mirror the products of its founding patron and current sponsor.
