EPCR considering expanded Champions Cup next season

The European Professional Club Rugby on Thursday stated that a 24-club Champions Cup tournament is being considered for the next season.

The tournament organisers also added that they are also in discussion about a probable one-off format next season to complete the tournament in a shorter span of time.

"Ongoing discussions with EPCR's league and union shareholders regarding new formats have included the possibility of a 24-club Heineken Champions Cup with eight representatives from each of Europe's leading league competitions, played over eight weekends," read a statement from EPCR.

"If adopted, any new format would apply to next season's tournament only on an exceptional basis."

The ongoing season was disrupted by the pandemic coronavirus but EPCR expressed confidence that finals will be played around mid-October.

"In the meantime, EPCR remains committed to making every effort to conclude the knockout stages of the Heineken Champions Cup and Challenge Cup season subject to official advice and with the health and welfare of players, club staff, match officials, supporters and the wider rugby community in mind," the statement added.