Zidane leads legends in Bayonne charity match for children
The match will kick off at 19:30 on Tuesday 27 October as a line‑up of French sport legends takes the field at the Jean‑Dauger stadium in Bayonne.
Organisation and charitable aim
Former France rugby international Pascal Olmeta has orchestrated the event, which will raise funds for the charity Un sourire, un espoir pour la vie. Founded by Olmeta in 2006, the association aims to "redonner avant tout un sourire aux enfants" and improve their physical and moral wellbeing.
Star‑studded line‑up
On the football side, Zinédine Zidane, Laurent Blanc, Fabien Barthez, Bixente Lizarazu, Jean‑Pierre Papin, Ludovic Giuly, Dimitri Payet, Steve Savidan and Sébastien Chabal will form the "legends of football" team. They will face a Basque selection that includes Camille Lopez, Dimitri Yachvili, Imanol Harinordoquy, Xavier Daramy, Pépito Elhorga, Jean‑Joseph Marmouyet, Richard Dourthe, Jérôme Thion, Damien Traille and Lionel Mazars. Handball greats Thierry Omeyer and Jérôme Fernandez, plus content creators Pablo Brimeux, Bengous and Djayson Karavane, will also appear. The event is promoted as a Ballon football charity showcase, highlighting the blend of sport and entertainment. Tickets start at 12.50 euros and are on sale through the official booking link. For supporters unable to travel, the best moments will be broadcast later. All proceeds will be transferred to Un sourire, un espoir pour la vie, helping the organisation continue its work with children across France.