[5] The Lord Derby Cup was previously open to all professional and amateur clubs,[5] but since the 2023–2024 edition has been limited to teams in the top two divisions.

While Toulouse struggled to field a stable team in the new code until 1937, it was still the go-to host city for many games during the tournament's formative years,[7] both because it was viewed as a key market and because the relationship with rugby union authorities was much less contentious there than elsewhere in the country.

Nonetheless, one-off wins by lower division clubs are not unheard of, and a handful of underdogs have produced cinderella runs over the years.

In 1983, fourth-level side Le Soler advanced to the semifinals, beating top-flight club Pia in the process, before losing to powerhouse XIII Catalan.

One of star player Georges Aillères' career regrets was never hoisting the Lord Derby Cup while playing for his longtime club, despite making it to four finals with them.

[5] To provide minor league clubs with a more accessible level of competition, the French federation has maintained a trio of secondary cup tournaments which are reserved for them.