News Summary:
European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) recently received 23 bids from 10 countries to host the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup finals weekends for 2028, 2029, and 2030. Earlier, on April 2, 2026, an Investec Champions Cup round of 16 fixture between Harlequins and Sale Sharks saw poor ticket sales, with over 6,000 tickets unsold for a 14,800-capacity venue, prompting calls for organizers to consider changes to knockout formats. Momentum for a Champions Cup revamp gained traction on January 28, 2026, as English Premiership executives explored proposals to refresh the competition, which many perceived as "bloated and diluted," with the French Top 14 and URC reportedly aligned on the need for reform and planning to present ideas to EPCR. Previously, on January 23, 2026, EPCR reported its direct-to-consumer strategy for Italian broadcast coverage doubled its market yield compared to traditional television deals. This followed comments on January 20, 2026, where EPCR stated it was sticking to its current Champions Cup format despite increasing criticism from clubs, coaches, and fans who argue the structure strains players and leads to weakened sides.
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