Ulster Rugby v Leicester Tigers

WELCOME MESSAGE FROM EPCR

Welcome to the 24th season of European club rugby, in which we have several exciting developments that will deliver the Heineken Champions Cup to new audiences both domestically, and around the world.

though, there is plenty of action to get excited about in the Pool Stage. Newcastle Falcons return to the tournament for the first time in 14 years, paired with Edinburgh Rugby, Toulon and Montpellier in Pool 5, whilst holders Leinster are in a section boasting 11 European Cups including the four of Toulouse. When you consider the stars of the global game lining up across the continent this weekend, it is hard to argue with BT Sport’s assertion that this is Test Match standard rugby in club colours. Wherever you enjoy the action, you can access HeinekenChampionsCup.com for the very latest insight to the tournaments and to have a chance to win prizes for taking part in our Try of the Round competition or Fantasy Rugby. As well as keeping you close to the heart of this tournament, it is also the best place to follow the European Rugby Challenge Cup, with highlights from the majority of matches across the Pool Stage. Enjoy the start of the European club rugby season,

In lifting the trophy for a record-equalling fourth time, Leinster Rugby gave several masterful examples of why it is considered as 'The One to Win' in the club game and the fans voted with their feet in support of a first Finals weekend outside of the traditional ‘six nations’ in Bilbao. The premium rugby competition has been joined once again by a title partner and we are proud that Heineken as a global brand, steeped in the storied history of our sport, have re-attached their name to the tournament. The crowds have been better than ever over the past two seasons and during this campaign, the European Cup’s aggregate attendances will pass the 20 million mark. However, it has also been important to simplify the viewing experience on television, which we have done with a move to BT Sport as the single pay-tv broadcaster in the United Kingdom and Ireland as well as an agreement with Channel 4 (UK) and Virgin Media Group (Ireland) to screen one live match in each round through to the final in May. Newcastle is already gearing up for a bumper weekend of rugby at St. James’ Park and so are the fans with fewer than 10,000 tickets remaining on general public sale. Before that

Simon Halliday EPCR Chairman