Alaixys Romao will complete Togo’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign while representing sixth‑division French side Six‑Fours Le Brusc FC—a surprising stage for one of the Eperviers’ most enduring figures.
At 41, Romao has embraced a return to his native France, joining Regional 1 outfit Six‑Fours Le Brusc. The move comes after a distinguished playing career that included stints at Olympique de Marseille, Olympiakos, Reims, and youth development in Toulouse.
Despite the club initially being denied promotion to National 3 by the DNCG, it remains hopeful of a positive ruling from France’s National Olympic and Sports Committee, which could elevate Romao’s new team into the fifth tier.
Even at this level, Romao’s commitment to his national team remains resolute. He has won 87 caps for Togo, debuting in 2005 with an assist in a 1–0 victory over Morocco.
Still a key presence under coach Daré Nibombé—a former teammate—Romao has featured in five of Togo’s first six matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifying series, often directing play from defensive midfield or centre‑back roles.
Romao’s longevity places him among football’s elite. He remains one of the few active players to have featured in the 2006 World Cup, sharing that rarefied group with icons such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
His extended career is a tribute to his professionalism, disciplined lifestyle, and team‑oriented mentality.
Often deployed as a defensive midfielder—but operating frequently as a central defender in recent seasons—Romao offers leadership and experience. He twice stepped away from international football, first following the 2010 Cabinda bus attack and again after the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
Each hiatus lasted multiple years, yet his eventual return saw him assume the role of vice‑captain, demonstrating unwavering dedication to Togo’s footballing cause.
The decision to ply his trade in French amateur football may seem incongruent with his ongoing involvement at the highest level of African competition. However, Romao’s choice reflects a broader ambition: to contribute meaningfully to a community club while continuing to serve his country when called upon. His presence on the Côte d’Azur adds a rare blend of World Cup experience to the grassroots stage.
Six‑Fours Le Brusc, located approximately sixty kilometres from Marseille’s Vélodrome, will benefit from his vast experience and professionalism. The club’s promotion ambitions align well with Romao’s own desire to lend expertise while maintaining fitness and relevance—especially during a campaign as important as World Cup qualification.
Togo coach Daré Nibombé has relied heavily on Romao’s calm structure and positional discipline, traits that remain valuable despite the player’s advanced years. His influence extends beyond matchdays, offering mentorship to younger teammates and reinforcing a culture of resilience and unity.
As the qualifiers progress, Romao is expected to feature once more before the final round of fixtures. His involvement underscores the unique intersection of contrasting paths—representing a small French club in Regional 1 while wearing the Togolese jersey in the pursuit of World Cup dreams.
In sum, Alaixys Romao’s latest chapter defies expectations. From World Cup pitches to grassroots fields, he continues to weave a story of persistence, leadership, and footballing passion.
For many players, stepping down to France’s sixth tier might signal retirement—but for Romao, it is merely another avenue for contribution, as he carries Togo’s flag forward with pride.
