Newcastle to host finals of 2019 European competitions

Newcastle's St James' Park ground will host the 2019 edition of European Champions Cup and European Challenge Cup finals.

Apart from the two encounters, Newcastle Falcons’ Kingston Park Stadium will host the European Rugby Continental Shield final.

Councillor Nick Forbes, who heads the Newcastle City Council is delighted by the news and is confident of delivering it successfully.

"We're absolutely thrilled that Newcastle has been named as host city for the 2019 European rugby finals, which is a real coup for the city and the North East.

"Our vision is to make Newcastle the Great North City, and we were resolute in those ambitions as we worked to secure this top tier tournament for our city, and showcase what we have to offer. It will bring thousands of fans from across Europe to the North East, and with them a welcome boost to our local economy.

"A tremendous amount of work has gone into securing this for Newcastle against stiff competition, and it's paid off."

Meanwhile, the 2018 edition of the tournament finals will be played in the Spanish city of Bilbao, making it the first time, it being played outside the regular rugby union countries.