HBC Nantes sign Aalborg captain Rene Antonsen!

Posted on 24. December 2025.

HBC Nantes is delighted to announce the signing of René Antonsen, Danish international line player and defensive specialist, from the 2026–2027 season for the next two years.

Developed at Aalestrup in northern Denmark, he joined Aalborg in 2011. After two initial seasons, he moved to Ribe-Esbjerg to gain experience (2013–2015) before returning to Aalborg.

With his club (where he is captain), he has played over 500 matches and has won every possible domestic trophy. With nine seasons in the EHF Champions League, he brings extensive European experience, reaching the Final4 of the competition three times.

At 33 years old, the defence-oriented line player is ready to take on a new challenge, leaving his home country to join HBC Nantes and the Liqui Moly StarLigue.

René Antonsen said:
“I’m very happy and motivated by this new project. HBC Nantes is a highly ambitious, top-level club with strong European experience, a clear identity, and an arena where it’s always very difficult for away teams to play. I wanted a new challenge and a new environment that would allow me to continue at the very highest level. I feel it’s the right choice—the next logical step in my career.”

A move that also pleases president Gaël Pelletier:
“We are pleased to welcome René Antonsen to HBC Nantes. A complete player with a strong defensive profile, he will strengthen our squad from next season. At 33, he will bring maturity, knowledge of the highest level, and solid Champions League experience—a competition where every detail matters. His game intelligence, commitment, and leadership will be major assets for the team. We are convinced he will quickly embrace the club’s DNA and fully contribute to our sporting ambitions.”

🇩🇰 René Antonsen
Position: Line player (Pivot)
Age: 33
Nationality: Denmark (International)
Height/Weight: 196 cm / 108 kg

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