By Nick Butler at the Susesi Convention Center in Belek

IRB President Bernard Lapasset has welcomed the agreement ©Getty ImagesApril 10 - International Rugby Board (IRB) chairman Bernard Lapasset has welcomed the long awaited introduction of the new European Rugby Champions Cup to replace the Heineken Cup after it was given the go-ahead to start from next season.


This follows an agreement bringing to an end two years of talks on the new format. 

Under the deal a new Swiss-based organisation, European Professional Club Rugby, has been set up to replace the European Rugby Cup Ltd which has run the Heineken Cup since its inception in 1995. 

The new tournament will involve 20 teams, rather than the 24 which participate in the Heineken Cup, with six coming from the English Premiership, six from the French Top 14 and seven from the Pro12 league featuring clubs from Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Italy.

A playoff will be held for the final place.

A new European Rugby Challenge Cup will also replace the second-tier Amlin Cup and a new third-tier cup will be introduced, called the Qualifying Competition.

Speaking here during the SportAccord International Convention, Lapesset welcomed the agreement as something that ensures the future of a strong structure of pan-European club competitions.

"I would like to thank all stakeholders for their full commitment to achieving the goal of a genuine pan-European competition structure that is in the best interests of the global Game and that fully complies with IRB regulations and bye-laws," he said.

"The IRB became involved in the process because we firmly believe in a strong and vibrant European competition structure that provides competition and player pathways and the solid foundations for rugby to grow and flourish across all 40 national Unions.

"This Accord will achieve just that.

"It is no secret that this has been a difficult process for all involved, but I am pleased that the IRB has been able to play its part in assisting and supporting our Unions within the negotiations and ensuring that the sanctity of IRB Regulations and Bye-Laws are at the heart of the Aaccord.

"European Rugby fans and the region's top players can now look forward to a strong accord and competition structure that promotes and celebrates the best of the European game."

The Heineken Cup, won by French side Toulon in 2013, will be replaced by the new competition ©Getty ImagesThe Heineken Cup, won by French side Toulon in 2013, will be replaced by the new competition ©Getty Images



Bill Beaumont, chairman of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), claimed the "benefits will be seen far and wide".

He added: "This includes from the clubs to the supporters, sponsors and everyone who has followed the fabulous mix of high class rugby and good natured rivalry - all played out in many spectacular towns and cities in Europe.

"The RFU, and in particular Ian Ritchie, has invested significant time over the last few months in helping to find a solution to a problem that at one stage looked difficult to solve.

"We are very pleased that the challenges off the pitch are concluded so we can enjoy the joys of the game on it, creating more unforgettable memories for players and fans alike."

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