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English Rugby Unveils 'Champ Rugby' as Revamped Second Tier

The RFU announces a 14-team league with a French-inspired playoff system and a revised promotion pathway to the Premiership.

Rugby Union - Premiership Rugby Cup - Semi Final - Ealing Trailfinders vs Leicester Tigers - Trailfinders Rugby Club, London, Britain - February 18, 2024 Leicester Tigers' Matt Scott scores a try. Andy Couldridge/Action Images/File Photo
Ealing Trailfinders have dominated in the Championship but have not been promoted after failing the Premiership’s minimum operating standards audit

Overview

  • The rebranded 'Champ Rugby' will feature 14 teams, including the returning Worcester Warriors and promoted Richmond, starting in the 2025-26 season.
  • Teams will compete in a 26-round home-and-away format, with the top six advancing to playoffs to determine a champion.
  • The league champion will face the Premiership's bottom team in a two-legged playoff for promotion, contingent on meeting revised minimum operating standards.
  • New rules will require at least 18 English-qualified players in matchday squads, with an allowance for six dual-registered Premiership players to foster talent development.
  • Inspired by France's Pro D2 system, the relaunch aims to bridge the gap between tiers and create a unified governance structure for professional rugby in England.