Tournament Administration Backs Format While Considering October Commencement

The administrative body behind European club rugby’s flagship championship is developing an October commencement strategy following this season’s December launch. This contemplated adjustment reflects collective support from team coaches and club officials who favor starting before November’s international window interrupts competitions.
Current agreements establish the tournament structure through 2030, yet mounting recognition suggests calendar adjustments could prove advantageous. An earlier start would preserve team quality before international commitments, potentially boosting opening-round viewership and attendance as fans witness complete rosters.
The 24-team configuration across four pools has drawn criticism, but tournament officials counter with impressive metrics. Broadcast audiences have doubled over six years while total stadium attendance has increased by 50 percent to reach roughly 1.5 million during that period.
Jacques Raynaud, leading the organizing body, addressed concerns including weakened selections for challenging away matches, complex South African travel arrangements, and qualification systems allowing teams with losing records to advance. Despite these issues, he maintains the format achieves objectives by minimizing inconsequential fixtures while maintaining financial partnerships.
Future planning includes evaluating scheduling models: consecutive October weekends or separated rounds across October and December. Raynaud stressed predictable calendars to avoid confusion during World Cup years. Additional proposals include extending intervals between elimination stages to improve ticketing operations and traveling supporter logistics.