European finals moved from Marseille over Covid fears

TOURNAMENT organisers have announced this season’s Heineken Champions Cup and European Challenge Cup finals will not take place as scheduled in Marseille, writes PA Sport.

European Professional Club Rugby said Marseille will stage both finals next year, with the original 2022 venue – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – now hosting 12 months later.

In a statement, EPCR said: “After consultation with the relevant local authorities in France and given the evolving public health situation, the board concluded that in order to reduce cross-border travel where possible and to minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission, flexibility was required regarding the choice of venues for the finals on May 21 and 22.

“EPCR is working with its shareholder leagues and unions to put in place alternative arrangements for the staging of the two matches, with all contingencies underpinned by the primary concern of protecting the health and welfare of players, club staff, match officials, fans and the wider rugby community.” The last two European Cup finals were staged in England – at St James’ Park, Newcastle and Bristol’s Ashton Gate – and large outdoor English venues could see up to 10,000 crowds allowed from May 17 as part of government plans to move out of lockdown.

Marseille was originally chosen as the host city for the finals in 2020, but this was re-scheduled to 2021 in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

Meanwhile, EPCR confirmed that European Cup semi-final ties will be played at the venues of the home clubs, replicating last season’s arrangements. The European Cup and Challenge Cup resume tomorrow and over the Easter weekend with round of 16 fixtures, followed by quarter-finals next week.