European rugby organisers EPCR have confirmed the widespread rumours next season's Heineken Champions Cup format will revert back to more traditional-looking pool stages.
From the West Country Bristol Bears, Exeter Chiefs and Bath Rugby have qualified for the Champions Cup with Gloucester just one of two Premiership sides competing in the Challenge Cup. Bristol were given a late promotion into the top tier competition after London Irish were suspended by the RFU last week after failing to show they had funds to finance the 2023/24 season with a takeover deal not materialising in time.