Irish provinces learn European pool stage opponents for 2026-27 tournaments

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 1:22 PM

Last updated Jul 1, 2026

Irish provinces learn European pool stage opponents for 2026-27 tournaments

Summary

The 2026-27 European pool stage draws have been released, outlining matchups for Irish rugby provinces. Ulster will compete in Pool One of the European Challenge Cup against Cheetahs, Perpignan, Dragons, Bayonnais, and Zebre. Leinster faces Clermont Auvergne, Pau, Leicester Tigers, Sale Sharks, and Glasgow Warriors in Champions Cup Pool One, while Munster and Connacht have drawn Bordeaux, Racing 92, Bristol Bears, Gloucester, and Saracens, La Rochelle, and Toulouse in Pools Three and Two, respectively. New rules will introduce try-scoring bonus points and adjusted criteria for advancement in the knockout stages.

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By the Numbers

•Ulster drawn against Cheetahs and Perpignan in Challenge Cup Pool One.
•Leinster to compete in Champions Cup Pool One alongside Clermont and Sale.
•Connacht faces Toulouse and Saracens in tough Champions Cup Pool Two.
•Munster will play Bordeaux and Racing 92 in Champions Cup Pool Three.
•New bonus point rules and qualification adjustments introduced for this season.

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