In 1997, Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace was undergoing a transitional phase marked by changes both administratively and on the sporting front. After a difficult 1996-1997 season, where the club was on the brink of relegation to Ligue 2, management decided to take drastic measures. The arrival of coach Philippe Ginestet acted as a catalyst, bringing a new philosophy of play and a tactical approach that quickly revitalized the team.

The players, galvanized by this new dynamic, gradually began to regain their confidence. Young striker David Linarès, making his debut as a starter, emerged as one of the team's leaders. His remarkable performances, paired with the talent of other players like international Frenchman Frédéric Pierre, allowed Strasbourg to establish itself as a force on the pitch.

This season was also marked by memorable clashes with historical rivals, notably RC Lens and FC Metz. These matches not only strengthened the competitive spirit within the team but also reignited the passion of the supporters, who witnessed a team determined to fight for every point.

As the months passed, Strasbourg took a new direction, achieving unexpected heights by the end of the season. By securing a comfortable survival in Ligue 1, the club laid the groundwork for a long-term project that would bear fruit in the years to come. Thus, the 1997 season was truly a springboard that allowed Racing to regain its status as a respected club in France.

The lessons learned during this period have endured within the club. Resilience and the ability to reinvent oneself became core values of Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace, contributing to the club's culture and the identity of Les Coureurs. Today, every time the team steps onto the field, it carries with it the legacy of these critical moments, a constant reminder of what it means to be a Coureur: always moving forward, no matter the obstacles.