The 2025 Investec Champions Cup kicks off with a bang for South Africa’s top franchises, as all three sides open their campaigns with blockbuster clashes against European heavyweights.
The tournament kicks off on 5 December and the Stormers will be the first SA team in action when they take on French outfit Aviron Bayonnais under the lights at Stade Jean-Dauger. Bayonne may be newcomers to the competition, but they’ll be a tough test at home, where they’ve built a fortress in the Top 14.
The Vodacom Bulls welcome reigning champions Bordeaux Bègles to Loftus Versfeld. The French giants claimed their maiden title last season and head to Pretoria for a sizzling 17:15 kickoff that could set the tone for Pool A.
Rounding out the weekend, the Sharks face arguably the toughest assignment of the lot – a Sunday showdown in Toulouse against six-time champions Stade Toulousain. The star-studded clash at Stade Ernest Wallon kicks off at 16:15 (local time), and promises fireworks with Springbok and French internationals set to collide.
The tournament features 24 clubs from top leagues across Europe and South Africa, including 10 former champions and a total of 25 previous titles between them.
The Vodacom Bulls, who have shown remarkable progress under Jake White, are set for a high-voltage start as they travel to Dublin to face Leinster. The Irish giants, perennial URC contenders and four-time European champions, present a major challenge for the Pretoria-based side. This clash is being billed as an early litmus test of the Bulls’ ambitions for silverware.
With marquee signings and a bolstered pack, the Bulls will be eager to prove that their physical brand of rugby can unsettle the Irish finesse.
These spicy European openers not only promise entertainment but could also shape the momentum of the season for the South African franchises. With altitude, heat, and travel on their side in home games — and cold, hostile crowds abroad — every match will be a test of squad depth, resilience, and tactical nous.
One thing’s certain: the Bulls, Stormers, and Sharks are not easing into the new season — they’re being thrown straight into the fire.
In the EPCR Challenge Cup, the Lions host Benetton at Ellis Park while the Cheetahs travel to Exeter to take on the Chiefs.
