St. Etienne is an industrial town in the Rhone-Alpes region. The city made its name as a center for coal mining and the School of Mines was founded in 1816. It was also known for its craftsmanship in the production of furniture trimmings and weapons. J ust over 200,000 people live in the city and many work at the nearly 400 small and medium-size businesses, including medical technologies companies and advanced components businesses.

Geoffroy Guichard is nicknamed the Green Cauldron because the home team wears green uniforms and was vociferously supported during its glory years in the '80s. The stadium was built in 1936 and seats 36,000. It is located two miles from the center of t he city.