How to Watch the European Rugby Champions Cup 2025/26

The “European Rugby Champions Cup” is among the largest rugby tournaments in the world. Teams from URC, the Premiership, as well as the Top 14 are all here. Its broadcasting rights are scattered across various broadcast networks. For that, your location can determine whether you can watch the Champions Cup or not.

For instance, famous broadcasters like TNT Sports, France TV, and Sky NZ limit their streams to specific countries. They check user’s IP address to determine where that user resides or where that user is accessing content from; thus, a person who has subscribed to a service can’t access its content if the person has moved to a different country.

Don’t fret; by using the right tools like a VPN, you can still follow every scrum, try, and final whistle, no matter where you are. A VPN gives you a server location in the country you want to access content from, making it appear you are accessing the content within the accessible region

Don’t know how to do that? Read our article to learn effective ways to stream the European Rugby Champions Cup from anywhere. We’ll also list the top sports streaming platforms to stream this exciting tournament.

Quick guide to watching the European Rugby Champions Cup using a VPN

For those users who do not have time to read through the full article, the following is a quick summary of how to typically watch the tournament from outside of Europe:

Top VPN services to stream the European Rugby Champions Cup online

We tested several services and shortlisted the top ones that can help you do the job. For an even deeper dive into VPNs optimized for European servers and performance, see our full breakdown of the best VPNs for Europe.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is a top name in the VPN market that has consistently performed well in speed, reliability, and coverage within the U.S./UK/Middle East. Its WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol has fast speeds and stability when streaming in HD/4K on major streaming services such as Peacock, FloRugby, and SuperSport.

NordVPN has an intuitive interface that displays a list of regions and the ability to switch faster than any other service. If a streaming platform kicks out a user while the VPN is active, a quick fix is typically to connect to a different region.

Also, NordVPN comes with “SmartDNS.” If your streaming device cannot run a VPN, this tech comes in handy. SmartDNS doesn’t encrypt traffic but reroutes location-specific data. It’s often faster than a VPN and works well on devices like Smart TVs, game consoles, and Apple TV that don’t natively support VPN apps.

Keep in mind, NordVPN may not serve everyone in every region, and from testing, your situation determines its quality of service. Still, the VPN is just right for a good user experience and a user-friendly geo-block unlocker.

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2. Surfshark

If you are looking for a VPN that is good for streaming on multiple devices, then Surfshark may be the best service for you. It allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices under one subscription, making it a great service for large households that may want to watch multiple streams simultaneously.

While testing with Premier Sports and beIN SPORTS, Surfshark unblocked both services effortlessly, and has impressive streaming speed. The app also has a split tunnelling feature. With it, you can choose specific apps to use the VPN connection while letting the rest of your traffic use your normal internet.

Its NoBorders mode may also be beneficial for users who need to connect to countries with highly restrictive internet connectivity. However, just as with any other VPN service, there are instances where not all servers are equally successful with every streaming service provider, especially on services such as Peacock and SuperSport, which may require you to reconnect to another server location before you can start streaming.

Despite this, Surfshark should remain a viable option for subscribers looking for great flexibility when it comes to any devices on which they stream.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has been a trusted name for years, providing reliable network performance and an extensive network of servers worldwide. The VPN is famous due to its blazing-fast speed and capability to unblock even heavy censorship.

The interface is easy to use, so with or without tech know-how, anyone can install the application. What’s more, it works with various electronic devices: Smart TVs, phones, and browser extensions. Depending on the streaming service, some users may need to periodically switch servers for reliable service.

However, due to its reliability and extensive server network, ExpressVPN is a top option for streaming the Champions Cup outside of Europe.

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Where can you find the European Rugby Champions Cup live stream on

There are currently several options for countries to live-stream the Champions Cup. Because broadcasting rights for the Champions Cup are always shifting, the live streams available to you depend entirely on where you’re watching from. The following is a list of platforms that have rights to stream European rugby competitions historically.

1. FloRugby

FloRugby delivers a broad range of rugby coverage for viewers in the United States and Canada, including major European tournaments and top international fixtures from around the world. Subscribers get access to live matches, full replays, highlights, and editorial analysis—all bundled into its growing on-demand library.

However, the platform is strictly geo-restricted. If you travel outside North America, FloRugby will block your stream the moment it detects a foreign IP address. In our testing across Europe and the Middle East, connecting to a U.S. server through a VPN (specifically NordVPN or Surfshark) successfully restored access to existing accounts in most cases.

Just keep in mind that performance may fluctuate depending on server load and connection time, and that FloRugby uses an annual and monthly billing.

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2. Peacock TV

Peacock offers a wide selection of sports programming tailored to U.S. viewers and has streamed European rugby matches across multiple seasons. It’s also one of the more affordable streaming platforms, with seamless compatibility across smart TVs, mobile devices, and major streaming systems.

However, Peacock is strictly limited to U.S. access. Our testing indicates that using a U.S.-based VPN server can successfully restore streaming capabilities for users traveling abroad. Still, some users have reported occasional verification prompts when logging in through specific VPN servers.

Additionally, Peacock’s catalog varies by location and fluctuates each season based on licensing and broadcast agreements, which can affect the availability of certain rugby matches.

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3. TV5MONDE USA

TV5MONDE USA delivers a wide range of French-language programming, including cultural shows and European sports coverage such as rugby. The availability of specific rugby matches changes throughout the year, and all streaming content is restricted to viewers located within the United States.

Testing confirms that users outside the U.S. can regain access by connecting to a U.S.-based VPN server, which allows them to sign in and stream TV5MONDE USA normally.

That said, the exact sports content you’ll see depends on the broadcasting rights TV5MONDE USA holds in your region. If you prefer French commentary or want reliable access to France’s Top 14 rugby action, this platform remains one of the strongest options.

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4. Premier Sports

Premier Sports thrives in both the U.K. & Ireland as it streams various European competitions, selected club matches, and URC fixtures. They have historically offered multiple monthly subscription options for fans who follow seasonal tournaments.

Like most broadcasters, Premier Sports limits access to users located in either the U.K. or Ireland; therefore, tests conducted on Premier Sports from countries within mainland Europe using NordVPN and ExpressVPN were able to restore access by connecting to a U.K. server.

However, it may be necessary to periodically change servers when specific nodes become blocked. Additionally, Premier Sports, like all broadcasters, is dependent on the current rights agreements with respective rights holders for the types of programming available.

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5. beIN SPORTS

beIN SPORTS operates across multiple regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, Australia, and Southeast Asia, and has broadcast European rugby competitions in several of these markets in past seasons. However, the exact rugby content available varies widely from one region to another due to differing broadcast rights.

Because of this, VPN access can be inconsistent. Testing shows that some Southeast Asian servers connect without issues, while certain Middle Eastern servers may require multiple attempts or switching between different locations before streams become available. (We have a dedicated guide on how to stream beIN SPORTS from anywhere.)

To avoid surprises, always confirm whether your specific region holds the broadcast rights for the Champions Cup during the current season.

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6. SuperSport

SuperSport is one of the leading broadcasters in Sub-Saharan Africa and a top destination for rugby fans. It earns its strong reputation through extensive match coverage, expert commentary, and in-depth analysis. The network has also carried European rugby competitions both domestically and internationally in previous seasons.

However, the platform is only accessible within South Africa and other Sub-Saharan African countries, like Nigeria. Testing from multiple regions shows that connecting through a South African VPN server usually restores access, though certain servers may be intermittently blocked.

Additionally, viewers must hold an active DStv subscription to stream SuperSport content—VPN access alone isn’t enough.

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7. YouTube

Although YouTube does not hold the rights to stream full Champions Cup matches, it remains a valuable source for highlights, interviews, press conferences, and other official content. In some regions, licensed broadcasters also upload extended match footage or full replays to their channels.

Most YouTube videos are available worldwide, but some clips remain region-restricted due to licensing rules. In testing, switching to a VPN server in another country typically bypassed these restrictions without issue.

However, if you want complete, uninterrupted coverage of every match, you’ll need to subscribe to one of the official broadcasters mentioned above.

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Reasons for using a VPN to watch the European Rugby Champions Cup

Rugby fans may choose to use a VPN when accessing the Official Site from abroad for several reasons. (If you’re wondering whether a VPN is right for sports streaming in general, our explainer has the answers.) Some relate directly to broadcasting limitations, while others focus on maintaining stable access and safeguarding personal privacy. A VPN helps bypass regional restrictions that may block match coverage, ensures more reliable connections when traveling, and adds an extra layer of security to protect your data from unsecured networks or monitoring.

Differences in coverage by country

Broadcasting rights for the tournament vary by region. Why? Because streaming rights worldwide are territorial. A service can legally show the event in one country but be geo-blocked from streaming it elsewhere. Even the same company that offers full coverage in one region may not have the rights to provide identical access elsewhere.

Because providers use your IP address to determine your location, traveling outside your home country can limit what you can watch—even if you pay for an active subscription.

A VPN can help by making it appear as though you’re connecting from your home region, often restoring access to the same content library you’d normally get. However, this method isn’t foolproof. Broadcasters regularly update their systems to block VPN traffic, so access can never be fully guaranteed.

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Traffic management by Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

Certain ISPs can manage network traffic.

How? 

They reduce how fast data travels for high-definition (HD) content and other bandwidth-sensitive services. No wonder your video quality is low and streaming lags.

However, VPN encryption hides your activity from your ISP, making it much harder for them to identify and impose bandwidth restrictions on what you’re doing. Also, your ISP is always on the watch what you’re doing online. (For details, you can read our guide on how to stop your ISP from tracking you.)

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Traveling

A lot of fans book domestic and international trips to see their teams play. Each broadcaster has a different network structure that allows for the distribution of its media.

This creates significant difficulties when individuals travel to other countries that do not allow them to access the same programming as their home country.

With a VPN, you can bypass this obstacle, and fans can continue to use their home proxy subscription as they travel internationally.

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Security and privacy

The encryption technology of VPNs provides a wider level of privacy and security. This is crucial whenever you connect to an untrusted network, like public Wi-Fi in a hotel or cafe.

Note, these benefits do not promise seamless streaming during international matches.

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Is it legal to watch the European Rugby Champions Cup with a VPN?

Most countries allow VPN use without restriction, meaning viewers can legally access the European Rugby Champions Cup while connected to a VPN. In fact, law enforcement and government agencies use VPNs for investigations and administrative tasks.

However, some countries (and certain services) block or prohibit access through a VPN. If you’re unsure, check your local regulations and the platform’s policies to avoid having your account limited, frozen, or suspended for violating their rules.

You should also review the Terms of Service (ToS) for any streaming provider you use. Each service has specific rules outlining where you can access its content and how you can use it.

Ultimately, it’s your responsibility to access content only from the geographic locations permitted under the streaming service’s ToS.

Fixtures and results for the European Rugby Champions Cup

The EPCR is starting from December 6, 2025. The following is the format of the schedule:

Pool stage

• Clubs from the Premiership, URC, and Top 14 will be put into pools.
• Each club plays multiple matches—for example, home/away and different rounds.
• Points will be awarded for winning, drawing, and having a bonus for multiple tries.
• The top-performing clubs will move on to the knockout stages.

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Round of 16

• Generally, match-ups are determined by pool rank.
• Typically, the higher-ranked club hosts the match.
• The matches will be played single-elimination style.

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Quarterfinals

• After winning, clubs will advance and play against new opponents.
• Most likely, matches will occur at their own venue, not on neutral grounds.

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Semifinals

• EPCR will select the venue for the semifinals, and they will possibly use larger stadiums or neutral European cities.

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Final

• The final will take place at a major venue that the organization chooses before the beginning of the season.
• Recent Finals have occurred in Dublin, Marseille, and Bilbao.

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FAQs