Bayonne rematch & Georgian encounter: Edinburgh’s European fixtures announced

12 Jul 2024

Edinburgh Rugby’s EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures for the 2024/25 season have been confirmed, promising a thrilling mix of European battles and homecomings at Hive Stadium.

The European adventure kicks off on Friday 6 December (kick-off 8pm) with an away trip to Gloucester at Kingsholm Stadium.

The campaign opener is repeat of last season’s EPCR Challenge Cup clash and follows on from September’s Scottish Building Society pre-season match-up with the Cherry & Whites at Hive Stadium.

The excitement ignites upon Edinburgh’s return to the capital, as they face French Top 14 side Aviron Bayonnais at Hive Stadium on Friday 13 December (kick-off 8pm) in a rematch of last season’s Round of 16 clash that saw Edinburgh claim victory on home soil.

The European campaign continues in the New Year with an away trip to face tournament and Top 14 newcomers RC Vannes on Saturday 11 January (kick-off 2pm local) in the club’s first-ever meeting with the French side which earned promotion last season.

Edinburgh Rugby then face Georgian outfit Black Lion at Hive Stadium on Sunday 19 January (kick-off 1pm) in the final round of the pool stages.

The match adds an extra layer of intrigue, with former Edinburgh Rugby Head Coach Richard Cockerill at the helm of the Georgian team.

The club is delighted to confirm that Official Travel Partner, Gullivers Sports Travel, is set to provide supporter travel packages for both away fixtures, with further details to follow in the coming days.

The away clash in Vannes will include travel with the team and hotel stay, while Gloucester will include a match ticket and hotel accommodation.

Head Coach Sean Everitt expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming European campaign.

He said: “The Challenge Cup provides a fantastic opportunity for us to test ourselves against top European opposition. We’re really excited about the prospect of facing Bayonne and Black Lion at Hive Stadium where the atmosphere is always electric.

“The energy our fans bring is phenomenal, and we know they’ll be behind us every step of the way, including the road trips to Gloucester and Vannes.”

Don’t miss out on your chance to back Edinburgh Rugby in Europe. Secure your 2024/25 season ticket now and guarantee your place in the heart of the action at Hive Stadium.