Champions Cup: Rules on last-16 qualification and bonus points have changed

Bonus points in next season’s Champions Cup pool stage will only be awarded to teams that have gone past their opponents at least three times – rather than simply scoring four or more tries.

The concept, which will be used in France’s Top 14, Southern Hemisphere Super Rugby and, from next season, England’s second-tier championship, aims to keep matches competitive for longer.

It was felt that the losers of opponents with a comfortable lead in the final quarter could easily earn a four-try bonus point.

There will also be a change in eligibility criteria for the final -16 stage.

Previously, the top four teams from each of the four six-strong pools will advance, and will be selected at home in the playoffs based on their team-level records.

From 2026-27, only three teams from each of the four pools will qualify automatically, with the remaining four last 16 places determined by aggregate points.

With wins being their primary point difference, a repeat of last season is now impossible: Leicester and the Bulls finished fourth with one win each, while the Sharks’ defeat leaves them fifth in their division with two wins.

The Champions League will start in October instead of December next season, hoping to engage fans earlier in the season.

Although organizers have touted increased attendances and digital interaction with fans, critics of the Champions Cup say the logistical difficulties of South African sides’ participation, the absence of a round robin for all teams to play and the quality level between the 24 teams have fluctuated.

The South African side is considering their future participation. In the European competition, but the organizers are sure that they will be at least in the 2026-27 edition.

The competition is reduced to 16 clubs and the possibility of a round at the end of the season It is suggested as a way to build his profile and reputation., External

However, any change would require universal approval from various stakeholders, with contracts in their current format locked in until 2030.

The draw for the 2026-27 pool stage will take place on Wednesday.