The European Rugby Championship Is in Full Swing. What’s New in 2026 and How Has It Affected Betting?

Analysis of the contenders for this year's European Rugby Championship. Analysis of the situation: can the Portuguese catch up with the Georgians, and what are the newcomers from Switzerland capable of

European Rugby Championship Teams, Key Players, and Betting Overview

The 2026 European Rugby Championship is Europe’s top second-tier tournament and part of the qualification cycle for the 2027 World Cup. Eight teams compete in a group stage followed by playoffs, with results impacting the World Rugby rankings.

The event draws attention beyond Europe, including in the Middle East, where fans follow matches, review statistics, and use platforms such as 1xBet Bahrain to stay connected to the tournament.

Format of the European Championship in 2026

Teams from Georgia, Portugal, Spain, Romania, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland will compete in the 2026 season. The tournament structure is as follows:

• two groups of four teams;

• matches within the groups;

• semi-finals between the best teams in the groups;

• a final and a match for third place.

This format guarantees at least three matches for each team, keeping the competition intense until the last round. The tournament is part of the 2027 World Cup qualifying system, so every win is super important. In analytical reviews, particularly on platforms such as 1xBet Bahrain, special attention is paid to the current state of the squads and the dynamics of their form. However, the decisive factors remain the team's readiness for the season and the depth of the rotation.

Georgia – Stable and Dominant in Matches

Georgia is approaching the 2026 European Championship as the main favorite of the tournament. The team consistently tops the team rankings and occupies the highest position in the world rankings among the participants of the second division. In previous seasons, the team regularly reached the final and won the title several times.

The country has been dominating the tournament for over a decade. Since 2008, the team has won most of the championship games. And in some periods, it won several years in a row. Among the key indicators of the Georgian national team in recent years are:

• more than 10 championship titles at the European level;

• regular victories with a margin of more than 15 points;

• the fewest losses in the tournament over the last 5 seasons;

• almost constant presence in the finals.

These indicators suggest that the team can expect good results in 2026, which also affects the odds. The specific names of the players are no less important. The approximate structure of the team in 2026 can be estimated from the table.

Overall, Georgia's squad ahead of the European Championship is quite strong. The club has managed to combine experienced players with forwards who are already involved in leading European clubs.

Portugal - Fast and Effective

Portugal attracted attention after its performance at the 2023 World Cup, specifically when it achieved a historic victory over Fiji. The team is approaching the 2026 European Championship as Georgia's main competitor. The Portuguese national team consistently reaches the final matches and regularly competes for the title. It has won medals on numerous occasions. In the 2000s and 2010s, it usually finished third on the podium. But recently, it has consistently taken second place behind Georgia. So, barring any unforeseen circumstances, it makes sense to bet on Portugal to win silver.

The Portuguese national team is expected to rely on several key figures at the 2026 European Championship:

• António Alves in the first line;

• Rafael Simões and Nicolau Martins in the second and third lines, respectively;

• in midfield, Jerónimo Portela and Samuel Marques;

• Rodrigo Marta, Nuno Sousa Gedesh, and Jose Lima in defense.

So, overall, the Portuguese national team is also very well prepared for the championship.

Romania and Spain – the Battle for Second Place

These national teams regularly compete for European Rugby Championship medals but remain less consistent than Georgia and Portugal. Differences in style and squad depth could influence the 2026 outcome.

Romania relies on physical dominance and set pieces, building play through a powerful forward pack and territorial pressure. Despite averaging under 50% possession, the team compensates with penalties and control in contact situations. Key names include Ovidiu Cojocaru, Cristi Chirica, Alin Conac, and Ginkli Vaovasa.

Spain emphasizes speed and technical skill, strengthening its back line and forward mobility. Typically finishing between third and fifth, Spain often keeps losses to favorites within 10–12 points. Jordi Horba and Fernando Lopez are among the notable players expected to feature.

Other Participants and Their Characteristics

In addition to the key favorites, it will be interesting to watch other teams. Betting on underdog matches may not be as profitable, but it also allows you to win. Especially if you closely follow the team's form. The Netherlands and Germany, for example, are gradually closing the gap with the leaders. Switzerland and Belgium are focused on maintaining their positions in the division. Among the key characteristics of the teams' behavior:

• The Netherlands' matches often have an average total score. This is because the team plays cautiously and tries to avoid open play against faster opponents. In matches against Switzerland or Belgium, the score difference is likely to be minimal.

• Germany's matches often take place at a slow pace. In the second half, the team often concedes goals, as the bench is not the strongest.

• The Swiss also have limited rotation. The team depends on a few leaders.

• Belgium has technical backline players, but is physically inferior in matches against Georgia or Romania.

Possible Surprises at the 2026 European Rugby Championship

Analyzing the lineups and the level of the teams before the championship, we can assume the following scenarios:

• Portugal will force Georgia to fight in the final, or even break its winning streak;

• Romania may take advantage of its physical superiority;

• Spain has the potential to take points from the favorites thanks to its pace and play on the flanks.

The matches in the middle of the table are particularly intriguing. The difference in class here is minimal, and the result is most often determined by discipline and the accuracy of the kicker.

Such predictions also influence bettors. Predictions and analytics require careful study and attention. However, it is always important to remember to gamble responsibly. Betting should remain entertainment, not the meaning of life.