Jean-Pierre Bade Reappointed as Réunion National Team Coach Ahead of Island Games
Jean-Pierre Bade has officially been reinstated as head coach of the Réunion Islands football team, the Réunion Football League announced on Tuesday. The decision, confirmed by league president Yves Éthève, marks a return to the national bench for the experienced coach as the team begins preparations for the upcoming Island Games, set to take place from August 8 to 16.
Bade will once again join forces with long-time collaborator Fred Bachelier, forming a technical duo with a proven track record. The pair previously led Réunion to a bronze medal finish during the 8th edition of the Island Games in the Seychelles in 2011—a result that remains one of the highlights in the island’s recent football history.
Their successful partnership has also extended beyond the Island Games. Bade and Bachelier guided Réunion to two victories in the Coupe de l’Outre-Mer (Overseas Cup), a competition that brings together French overseas territories. Their leadership and tactical insight helped to elevate Réunion’s reputation on the regional football scene, demonstrating their ability to foster both talent and team cohesion in international competition.
Bade’s reappointment comes at a crucial moment for Réunionese football. With the Island Games only months away, the focus will be on assembling a competitive squad capable of challenging for top honours. The Island Games, which feature a range of sports and athletes from island territories across the globe, offer a vital opportunity for regional footballing nations like Réunion to showcase their development and talent on an international platform.
Speaking after the announcement, league president Yves Éthève expressed confidence in the coaching duo’s ability to lead the team to success. “Jean-Pierre Bade and Fred Bachelier have already proven what they can achieve together,” he said. “We believe their experience and shared vision will be instrumental in preparing a team that can proudly represent Réunion and aim for gold this time.”
Bade, a former professional footballer who played for clubs such as RC Lens and Olympique de Marseille in France, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of both the domestic and international game. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, technical quality, and unity—principles that will be crucial as the team enters an intensive training phase.
While challenges lie ahead, including selecting the final squad and competing against strong teams from other island territories, optimism is high. With Bade and Bachelier at the helm, expectations are rising that Réunion can improve on its previous bronze medal performance and make a serious push for the title.
The return of this accomplished coaching team signals renewed ambition for Réunion football, as they prepare not just to participate, but to compete with pride and purpose at the Island Games 2025.
