A Guardian rugby analysis argues that the Champions Cup is becoming too predictable at the top. Toulouse and Bordeaux-Bègles are presented as the strongest candidates in a tournament shaped by six consecutive seasons of French success.
The article considers whether a twenty-four-team competition can retain enough uncertainty when only a small group appears capable of winning. Leinster, Bath, Northampton and Montpellier are discussed among the chasing sides, with others further from the leading pair.
This is an assessment of competitive balance rather than a forecast already fulfilled. The piece questions how the competition’s structure and regulations interact with club strength, and whether strong early favourites risk reducing the sense of opportunity before the first round has even been played.
