Guide to Streaming the 2026/27 Champions Cup Rugby Online
Get all the details on how to watch the Champions Cup live, including free streaming options and match schedules.
The Champions Cup is back, showcasing the best rugby union clubs from Europe and South Africa. Teams from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales will compete to dethrone the current champions and end France's recent dominance in this prestigious tournament.
Top Contenders for the 2026/27 Title
After the successes of Toulouse and La Rochelle, Bordeaux Bègles have emerged as front-runners. With a powerful roster featuring stalwarts like Matthieu Jalibert and Louis Bielle-Biarrey, they aim to repeat Toulon's impressive history of consecutive victories from 2013 to 2015.
Toulouse, with a record six titles, is determined to reclaim glory after Bordeaux eliminated them in the last two seasons. They have been a strong team in the Top 14, clinching six of the past seven titles.
Challenges from Other Nations
English champions Exeter Chiefs were the last non-French team to lift the trophy, and despite their current form suggesting a struggle, teams like Northampton Saints and Saracens will also fight for the title. Ireland's teams, including Leinster and Munster, haven't won for eight years, which they'll be keen to correct.
South Africa sends hopeful squads like the Bulls and Stormers, while Glasgow Warriors and Cardiff Rugby aim to secure victories for Scotland and Wales, respectively.
Streaming Options for Fans
For rugby enthusiasts eager to catch the live action, here’s how to watch the Champions Cup this season.
Free Streaming Options
- In France, two matches per round featuring French teams will be available on France.TV.
- Cardiff Rugby matches can be watched on S4C and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
- DAZN will offer a free match each round in various territories, including Japan, MENA, and more.
Worldwide Coverage
In the US, FloRugby is the go-to platform, requiring a subscription for $39.99 per month or $155.88 annually. UK viewers can subscribe to Premier Sports at £18.99 per month. In Australia, EPCR TV will stream every match for €49.99, approximately AU$80.
VPN Services for Travelling Fans
If you're traveling and want to access your home streaming service, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help. This software masks your location, letting you watch Champions Cup matches as if you were back home. We recommend Surfshark for its reliability and 30-day money-back guarantee.
Match Schedule Overview
The tournament kicks off on October 16, 2026, and runs until May 22, 2027. Here are a few key fixtures:
- Round 1:
Gloucester Rugby vs Union Bordeaux Bègles - October 16 at 3 PM ET - Round 2:
Stade Français Paris vs Northampton Saints - December 11 at 3 PM ET - Quarter-finals:
April 9-11, with fixtures TBD - The Final:
May 22, time TBC
For a complete schedule of matches and streaming details, check local listings and the official Champions Cup website.