Rugby Union News: Black Lion and Toyota Cheetahs Extend EPCR Challenge Cup Participation
[Llanelli, Wales – December 15, 2023] The European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) has announced that the Georgian club Black Lion and South Africa’s Toyota Cheetahs will continue their participation as invited clubs in the EPCR Challenge Cup for the next two seasons, 2024/25 and 2025/26.
The Tbilisi-based Black Lion and the Toyota Cheetahs, who will continue to use Amsterdam as their home base, have met EPCR’s criteria for participation, including having a suitable home venue in Europe and the ability to field competitive matchday squads that adhere to the required minimum standards.
Both clubs have already made significant contributions to the EPCR Challenge Cup in recent seasons. The Toyota Cheetahs reached the knockout stage of the tournament in both 2022/23 and 2023/24, while last season, Black Lion made history by becoming the first Georgian club to participate in an EPCR tournament. Their impact was immediate, with a superb away victory against the Scarlets and strong attendance at their home matches in Tbilisi.
EPCR Chairman Dominic McKay expressed delight at the inclusion of Black Lion and the continuation of the Toyota Cheetahs’ participation, stating that it reflects a commitment to widening the scope of the tournaments and showcasing new, exciting talent to fans worldwide.
Georgian Rugby Union President Ioseb Tkemaladze acknowledged the importance of this moment for Georgian rugby and the country, expressing gratitude to EPCR for their vision and support in further developing the game globally.
Toyota Cheetahs CEO Ross van Reenen also expressed his organization’s honor at being invited to participate in the prestigious international competition, anticipating a return to the sell-out atmosphere at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam.
EPCR also confirmed that they are exploring the possibility of a meritocratic promotion pathway into the Challenge Cup, as well as establishing long-term invitations for competitive clubs with ambitious development plans. The pool draws for the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup are scheduled for July 2nd in Cardiff.
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