Top Welsh talent was also in attendance, as representatives from EPCR Challenge Cup contenders Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys, Dragons RFC, and Scarlets took part in the SCALE CLIMB to the roof of the Principality Stadium. Callum Sheedy returned to his hometown club of Cardiff this summer after more than 170 games for Bristol Bears, and was part of the 2021 Six Nations winning squad. Having previously experienced the electric atmosphere under the roof of the Principality Stadium, he’s extra motivated to make the Challenge Cup final on home soil. “I’m loving being back playing for Cardiff, my home city. It is a fantastic city to play or watch rugby and has such a rich history in hosting major events.
“To have the EPCR finals here at the Principality Stadium is a massive motivating factor for all Welsh teams, and particularly Cardiff, who obviously played in the first ever European final here and have twice won the Challenge Cup.”
Also present at the Principality Stadium were the Hollywoodbets Sharks. Last year, this impressive team wrote their names into the history books when they became the first South African club to win an EPCR title. In doing so, the team from Durban also booked their return to the Investec Champions Cup this coming season. François Venter described what it means to him. “After last season’s Challenge Cup win, we’re excited to be back in the Investec Champions Cup. There’s no question this is the competition we want to be in and it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to compete against the best clubs in the world. Being in Cardiff today is a great reminder of how much is a stake and what we’re all competing for.”
EPCR’s new official technical apparel partner Macron also joined the day in anticipation of the release of the new EPCR Match Official kit, which was modelled by EPCR match officials Sara Cox (Premiership Rugby), Craig Evans (URC) and Pierre Brousset (TOP14). Of seeing his home stadium lit up in Investec Champions Cup colours, Welsh referee Craig Evans said: “After 11 years, the European finals are back in Cardiff, and the city will truly come alive for it. The stadium has been buzzing with excitement today as all the teams gather to kick off the new season. It’s a celebration of unity, passion, and the love of the game!”
Jacques Raynaud, CEO of ECPR said: “This is essentially the kick-off of a very special 30th season, and we are so pleased to come back to where it all started – here in Cardiff.
“We are thrilled to welcome our Investec Champions Cup clubs and referees, as well as our partners, to the iconic Principality Stadium today. It is not only an opportunity for our partners and broadcasters to work with the players and bring fans closer to the 2024/25 Investec Champions Cup season, but also a rare moment for players from different leagues to connect, enjoy shared experiences and foster friendships off the pitch – before reigniting rivalries at the start of the Investec Champions Cup season.”
Both the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup will feature the very best of international clubs and world-class talent, guaranteeing unmissable rugby action. The 2024/25 season will get underway on the weekend of 6/7/8 December and promises to be an unforgettable one for rugby fans.
The EPCR Challenge Cup Final will be played at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Friday 23 May 2025 with the showpiece Investec Champions Cup Final is set for the following day, Saturday 24 May 2025, at the same iconic venue. Tickets are available to purchase, with more information available HERE.
>>>Story courtesy of https://www.epcrugby.com/champions-cup/news
