Champions Cup Eyes October Relaunch to Revitalize Tournament Schedule

European rugby’s premier club competition is set for a significant calendar adjustment, with organizers planning to move the Champions Cup’s opening rounds back to October. The shift represents a strategic response to feedback from coaches and clubs who believe an earlier start would better prepare teams ahead of the demanding November international window.
The current tournament structure, which saw this season’s competition begin in December, is technically locked in until 2030. However, growing consensus among stakeholders suggests flexibility may be necessary to optimize the competition’s format and timing. An October start would allow clubs to field their strongest lineups before players depart for autumn international duties, potentially generating greater early-season excitement among supporters.
European Professional Club Rugby officials have defended the existing 24-team, four-pool format despite widespread criticism. The organization points to impressive growth metrics, including television viewership that has doubled over the past six years and aggregate stadium attendance rising by 50 percent to approximately 1.5 million spectators during the same period.
Chief executive Jacques Raynaud acknowledged concerns about weakened team selections for away fixtures, complicated South African travel arrangements, and scenarios where teams advance despite minimal victories. Nevertheless, he maintains the current formula successfully delivers competitive matches with meaningful stakes. The knockout stages continue to generate substantial interest and revenue from broadcasting partners, sponsors, and host cities.
Looking ahead, organizers are weighing whether to implement two consecutive October weekends or distribute matches across October and December with a single weekend each. Raynaud emphasized the importance of consistency, noting they want to avoid confusion by alternating start dates based on World Cup cycles. The proposed changes also include extending the gap between last-16 matches and quarter-finals to improve ticket sales and accommodate traveling supporters.