Stakeholders announce new European cup format
European clubs have agreed to launch three new continental tournaments after almost two years of conflict, the six federations and representatives from English, French and Welsh teams announced on Thu
In a joint-statement, the nine stakeholders also revealed that previous competition organisers European Rugby Cup (ERC) will be replaced by a new organisation based in Switzerland.
"A new deal on European club rugby has been signed," read the statement.
"All nine stakeholders have underlined their commitment to an invigorated competition that will start in the 2014/5 season and meets the requirements of all the parties involved.
"It is a truly meritocratic tournament, with appropriate division of finances, underpinned by a long-term agreement and strong governance.
"It features three cross-border club competitions to be called the European Rugby Champions Cup, the European Rugby Challenge Cup and a new competition called the Qualifying Competition."
