Grenoble dominates Angers to clinch 9th Ligue Magnus title

The Brûleurs de Loups have reclaimed their place at the summit of French ice hockey.

With an emphatic 6–2 victory over Angers in Game 5 of the Ligue Magnus finals, Grenoble captured their nineth national title in front of  the home crowd at the sold-out Polesud arena.

Clinching the series 4–1, Grenoble dominated every aspect of the decisive game, bringing to a close a season that was both triumphant and emotional, particularly as it marked the final appearance of several iconic players.

Despite conceding the opening goal early in the first period and falling behind again midway through the second, Grenoble remained composed and began to turn the tide with clinical precision. After drawing level at 2–2, the Brûleurs de Loups exploded offensively, scoring four unanswered goals to close out the game. Their goals came from five different players, showcasing the team's offensive depth and relentless momentum, eventually sealing a 6–2 victory that left Angers with no chance of a comeback

The team’s success was built on depth and cohesion. Goaltender duo Jakub Stepanek - Matija Pintaric once again provided a solid backbone, while the offense saw contributions from all corners — a reflection of Grenoble’s collective strength throughout the season.

Saturday night’s was also a goodbye. Kyle Hardy and Damien Fleury, two pillars of the Grenoble team, confirmed their retirement following the match. Hardy, visibly moved, reflected on his final game: “It’s a beautiful way to go out. I’ve had so many great memories here, but this one… this one’s unforgettable.”

“It’s hard to describe the feeling,” said forward Damien Fleury. “We worked so hard all year. To finish like this, at home, is something special.”

Head coach Per Hanberg paid tribute to his veterans: “These guys have given so much to this team, to this city. It’s only right they go out as champions.”

For Angers, it was a night of frustration and missed opportunities. Struggling to contain Grenoble’s pace and creativity, the Ducs never truly found their footing in the series.

“We gave it everything,” said Angers coach Jonathan Paredes. “But Grenoble was better. Credit to them — they deserve the title.”

The championship also means Grenoble will represent France in the next edition of the Champions Hockey League — a fitting reward for a season marked by consistency, resilience, and one last glorious ride for some of its iconic players

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