The Investec Champions Cup will retain its controversial format until at least 2030, despite growing criticism from clubs, coaches and fans.
European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) has rejected calls for change, insisting the current structure is delivering drama, jeopardy and stronger fan engagement.
Under the existing format, 24 teams are split into four pools of six, with only eight sides eliminated after four pool matches. The system has drawn fire this season, with several teams resting frontline players in away fixtures while still qualifying for the round of 16.
The Vodacom Bulls and Leicester Tigers both progressed despite winning just one pool match, with critics arguing the format removes urgency and devalues certain fixtures.
However, EPCR chief executive Jacques Raynaud insists the competition continues to deliver high-quality rugby and unpredictable outcomes.
“It was the most competitive pool stage in recent years from a sporting side, and a high-stakes weekend we just had,” he told The Times.
“Whatever the team lineups, the injury rate, the overriding impression is that we have Test-match rugby in club colours, and unpredictable, superb rugby on the pitch.”
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EPCR cites improved TV figures, increased stadium attendances and strong digital growth — particularly on YouTube — as proof that the format is resonating with fans.
“I know there are opinions that it could be more elite, but the truth is it’s still delivering fantastic rugby, on superb stages,” said Raynaud. “Maybe not the entire 20 matches per weekend, but we can measure it with fan engagement. I’m not just sugar-coating it. The data points are out there.
“This format and time date is currently fixed until 2030,” Raynaud added. “Remember our job is not only to provide cheese and dessert. We have to lay on a great compelling tournament from a sporting, fan side and to have the financial formula that is liked by TV, sponsors and host cities so we can maximise what we’re generating for the club game.
“We have a compelling tournament with a stable format that is delivering what we wanted. Can it be improved? I think it can; one of the things we’re looking at is to start earlier, and we’re looking at maybe separating the round of 16 and quarter-finals.”
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The Times understands that EPCR wants future editions to start in October, not December.
And while South African clubs have pushed for back-to-back home fixtures during the pool stage to help manage the heavy travel demands, EPCR believes such an arrangement would risk skewing the competition.
That said, organisers are in discussions with the Vodacom URC to better align the calendar and reduce long-haul travel for South African teams during the December window.
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
