The wait is almost over. The European continental rugby season is just around the corner, running from 16 to 18 October 2026, and South Africa’s powerhouse franchises are ready to chase European silverware.
While the tournament officially gets underway on 16 October with reigning champions Union Bordeaux Bègles visiting Gloucester Rugby, local rugby fans have their eyes locked on Saturday, 17 October, when all three of South Africa’s elite Champions Cup contenders step onto the pitch.
Investec Champions Cup Opening Fixtures
South Africa’s premier trio—the Bulls, Stormers, and Lions—kick off their campaigns on Saturday, 17 October 2026:
- Bulls vs. Stade Français Paris
- Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
- Time: 14:00 SAST
- The Lowdown: The Pretoria faithful will look to turn Loftus into a fortress as the Bulls host French giants Stade Français to open their account.
- Stormers vs. Bristol Bears
- Venue: Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
- Time: 16:15 SAST
- The Lowdown: The Mother City hosts a blockbuster clash against the Bristol Bears. Keep an eye out for new signing Haashim Pead, who could feature following his recent URC debut against the Sharks.
- Stade Rochelais vs. Lions
- Venue: Stade Marcel Deflandre, La Rochelle, France
- Time: 18:30 SAST
- The Lowdown: In a historic milestone, the Lions make their maiden appearance in the prestigious Champions Cup, kicking off with a daunting away trip to French powerhouses Stade Rochelais.
EPCR Challenge Cup: Sharks & Cheetahs Take Flight
Meanwhile, the Sharks and the Cheetahs are geared up for their EPCR Challenge Cup campaigns, which also feature high-stakes weekend battles:
- LOU Rugby vs. Sharks (Saturday, 17 October – 14:00 SAST | Stade de Gerland, Lyon)
- The 2023/24 Challenge Cup champions begin their quest for another title on French soil.
- Aviron Bayonnais vs. Cheetahs (Sunday, 18 October – 14:00 SAST | Stade Jean-Dauger, Bayonne)
- The Cheetahs head to France looking to make an early statement in the competition.
Following the opening weekend, both the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup will pause for the international window, resuming with Round 2 fixtures on 11 and 12 December 2026.
