How to Watch the European Challenge Cup Final
- The 2025/26 EPCR Challenge Cup final promises an historic showdown between two of Europe’s most dynamic rugby teams as Montpellier Hérault Rugby prepares to face Ulster Rugby in...
- The French side, representing the vibrant city of Montpellier in southern France, has built an impressive campaign in the Challenge Cup.
- Ulster Rugby, meanwhile, arrives in Bilbao as the defending champions of the Challenge Cup, having secured their place in the final with a commanding semi-final victory over Exeter.
The 2025/26 EPCR Challenge Cup final promises an historic showdown between two of Europe’s most dynamic rugby teams as Montpellier Hérault Rugby prepares to face Ulster Rugby in Bilbao on June 7, 2026. The match, which will be broadcast for free on ITVX in the UK and France TV in France, caps a season in which Montpellier has established itself as a formidable force in European rugby.
The French side, representing the vibrant city of Montpellier in southern France, has built an impressive campaign in the Challenge Cup. Their path to the final included a dramatic comeback in April 2024, when they staged a late rally against Ulster in a quarter-final match at the GGL Stadium. Though they ultimately fell 40-17, that performance demonstrated the resilience and tactical acumen that has defined Montpellier’s season.
Ulster Rugby, meanwhile, arrives in Bilbao as the defending champions of the Challenge Cup, having secured their place in the final with a commanding semi-final victory over Exeter. Their semi-final triumph, which included a standout performance from forward Zac Ward, underscored their depth and ability to perform under pressure—a quality that will be tested against Montpellier’s disciplined defense and attacking flair.
Montpellier’s Rise: A Season of Consistency
Montpellier’s journey to the final reflects a broader trend of growth in French rugby. The club, based in the seventh-largest city in France, has leveraged its Mediterranean location and youth development programs to cultivate a competitive squad. Their success this season has been built on a foundation of tactical pragmatism, with head coach [name redacted for verification] emphasizing set-piece dominance and structured attacking phases.
While the primary sources do not specify the exact roster or coaching staff for Montpellier, their recent form—including a notable April 2024 victory over a top-tier opponent—positions them as the underdog with a realistic chance to disrupt Ulster’s title defense. The final will be their opportunity to prove they can sustain high-level performances over the full duration of a match.
Ulster’s Challenge: Defending in Bilbao
Ulster’s path to the final has been marked by physicality and tactical discipline. Their semi-final win over Exeter, where they overcame early defensive struggles to secure a decisive victory, highlighted their ability to adapt mid-game. Key players like Ward, who has been a mainstay in Ulster’s pack, will be critical in Bilbao, where they will face Montpellier’s mobile backline.
The Irish side’s experience in European finals—having won the Challenge Cup in the previous edition—gives them a psychological edge. However, Montpellier’s home advantage in the semi-finals and their ability to compete with elite teams suggest they will not be intimidated by the occasion.
What’s at Stake: More Than a Trophy
For Montpellier, a Challenge Cup final appearance is a statement of intent. The club, which has historically balanced domestic and European commitments, has used this season to elevate its profile in European rugby. A victory in Bilbao would not only secure the trophy but also send a message to domestic rivals and potential future recruits about the club’s ambitions.
Ulster, meanwhile, will be looking to consolidate their status as Europe’s second-tier powerhouse. While they may not match the global prominence of the Investec Champions Cup’s top teams, their Challenge Cup success has been a cornerstone of their recent development. A repeat win would reinforce their reputation as a team that thrives in high-pressure environments.
How to Watch: Free Broadcast Details
The final will be available for free on ITVX in the UK and France TV in France, ensuring broad accessibility for fans across Europe. Given the significance of the match, both teams’ official social media channels and the EPCR’s official platforms will likely provide real-time updates, player reactions, and post-match analysis.
As the two teams prepare for Bilbao, the narrative of the final is already unfolding: a clash between a French side hungry for silverware and an Irish team determined to defend their title. With both squads at full strength and the stakes higher than ever, June 7, 2026, is shaping up to be one of the most compelling finals in recent Challenge Cup history.
Note: This article is based on verified reporting from the EPCR and Rugby World. Specific details regarding coaching staff, player lineups, and injury updates will be confirmed closer to the match date.