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Griffiths hails new Europe

By Online Editors
Saturday 12 Apr 2014

Saracens chief executive Edward Griffiths believes the creation of the new Rugby Champions Cup is a "win-win" for the European game.

The new 20-team competition will replace the existing European Cup from next season, with tournament funds distributed equally between the English Premiership, France's Top 14 and the Pro12, which comprises the leading clubs in Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Italy.

Now the top six clubs in England and France will qualify automatically, alongside the top seven teams from the Pro12, a change to the current set-up where leading sides from countries outside the Premiership and Top 14 are all but guaranteed a place among Europe's elite.

The final spot will be decided by the winner of a play-off between the seventh-placed sides in the Premiership and Top 14.

"It's good news for European rugby and takes the competition forward so that it's stronger in every way," Griffiths said on Friday, with London club Saracens set to play French side Castres in the European Cup semifinals at Twickenham on April 26.

"Anyone would look at the fact there's equal qualification from the three major leagues in Europe and say that's common sense. It's a fair deal on all sides and is a good compromise.

"This saga has always been about persuading people that it's not about one side getting one over another, it was always going to be win-win for everybody," added Griffiths.

"That message has got through and we've now got this compromise that works well for everybody."

Meanwhile Regional Rugby Wales, representing the four Welsh regions – the Scarlets, Cardiff Blues, Ospreys and Newport Gwent Dragons – also gave its backing to the tournament.

"The regions are pleased that after giving their support to the Rugby Champions Cup last October, a new European platform has now been secured based on a strong core principle of equal distribution by participating clubs," read an RRW statement.

"We can all now look forward to a more developed, competitive and high quality European competition next season."

AFP

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