Match Officials confirmed for URC Play Off Semi-Finals – Leinster v Glasgow & Bulls vs Sharks

The United Rugby Championship have confirmed the assigned match officials, for the upcoming play-off semi-finals this weekend. The final four sides will battle it out for a place in the 2025 URC Final, with those set to run the whistle, sidelines and TMOs nailed on this afternoon.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Leinster Rugby vs Glasgow Warriors

Aviva Stadium, Dublin – KO 14.45 IRE & UK / 15.45 ITA & SA

Referee: Andrea Piardi (FIR, 54th league game)

Assistant Referees: Craig Evans (WRU) and Gianluca Gnecchi (FIR)

TMO: Matteo Liperini (FIR)

Live on: RTÉ, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Italian referee Andrea Piardi will take charge of the semi-final at the Aviva Stadium as Leinster host Glasgow Warriors. Piardi, who has impressed throughout the season with his game management and decision-making, becomes the first Italian to referee a URC semi-final. He will be supported by Chris Busby and Sam Grove-White on the touchlines, with the experienced South African Marius Jonker in the TMO booth

Vodacom Bulls vs Hollywoodbets Sharks

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria – KO 17.15 IRE & UK / 18.15 ITA & SA

Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU, 107th league game)

In Pretoria, Jaco Peyper will oversee an all-South African clash between the Bulls and Sharks at Loftus Versfeld. Peyper is one of the most experienced referees in world rugby, known for his calm authority and thorough understanding of the game. AJ Jacobs and Ben Blain will assist him, while Ireland’s Joy Neville—also a former World Rugby Referee of the Year nominee—will serve as the TMO.

These appointments highlight the URC’s commitment to selecting the top officials from across the participating nations to ensure fair, consistent, and world-class officiating during the season’s most critical stage. Both matches promise intensity, skill, and drama as teams battle for a place in the 2024/25 URC Grand Final.