Cheetahs v Lions in Challenge series
NEWS: The annual Challenge Series will again deliver international rugby to Bloemfontein.
It will be the fifth annual Challenge Series, which kicks off on Friday, October 17 at the Free State Stadium, in Bloemfontein.
In a change from previous years the Cheetahs host the Black Lion team from Georgia.
A week later, Sunday, October 26, the teams will face each other again in a second encounter.
The series will be a ‘warm-up’ for their participation in Europe’s Challenge Cup tournament.
The Cheetahs and the team from Georgia, Black Lion, have both been invited to the ECPR Challenge Cup, which takes place in December 2025 and January 2026.
This encounter will provide good preparation for both teams, as the competition kicks off on the weekend of December 6.
The first Challenge Series was hosted in 2021, providing the Cheetahs with the opportunity to play against opponents they would regularly face in regular competitions.
In 2021, they faced Diables from Barcelona, the Sharks and Baia Mare from Romania.
In 2022, they played against Emerging Ireland, the USA National A side and the Griquas.
In 2023, the Western Force travelled to Bloemfontein for two games, while the Cheetahs visited Perth, Australia, for two more tough games.
Through the Challenge Series, the Cheetahs formed and fostered strong relationships with clubs worldwide. Last year, the Cheetahs faced Western Force, the Griffons, and Emerging Ireland for a second year.
As in the previous four years, the 2025 Challenge Series promises to deliver riveting action, showcasing these exceptional teams’ dedication, skill, and determination.
Rory Duncan, CEO of the Free State Cheetahs, said: “The Challenge Series is a fantastic opportunity for the Cheetahs to test themselves against top international teams.
“This year, we’re thrilled to host the Georgians in the form of the Black Lion.
“Our last encounter with a Georgian team was a memorable occasion for supporters and their families, and we’re eager to recreate that same excitement and energy with the Challenge Series.”
Frans Steyn, Director of Rugby and Coach of the Cheetahs, added: “The opportunity that South Africa provides us through the Challenge Series is massive.
“Playing against an international side like Black Lion gives our players top-level preparation before the EPCR Challenge Cup. These fixtures will hopefully sharpen us as a team and create the kind of intensity we need to compete in Europe later this year.”
Richard Cockerill, coach of Black Lion: “As a Black Lion team, we are delighted to be invited to take part in the Challenge Series competition, the Cheetahs franchise is known worldwide and the Free State Stadium is an unbelievable venue to play rugby.
“We anticipate two tough games, and as a Black Lion franchise, we look forward to a warm South African welcome both on and off the field.”
Fixtures:
Friday, October 17
18.00: Cheetahs v Black Lion
Sunday, October 26
13.30: Cheetah Legends v Bulls Legends
15.00: Cheetahs v Black Lion
