Rugby royalty comes to town this weekend as Union Bordeaux Bègles, the Investec Champions Cup title holders, begin their title defence against the Vodacom Bulls in Pretoria.
Known for their potent attacking rugby style, Bordeaux Bègles were formed in 2006 from the merger of two historic Bordeaux clubs and quickly established themselves as a French powerhouse, reaching two Top 14 finals in recent years and finally claiming their first major European title in 2025.
Their squad is packed with international talent, featuring several stars you’ll see on the pitch at Loftus Versfeld during ‘The Greatest Club Rugby Competition in the World’:
- Damian Penaud: A world-class French international winger/centre and a prolific try-scorer, he was key to their Champions Cup success.
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey: The young French wing sensation, nominated for the 2025 World Rugby Player of the Year award, known for his blistering pace.
- Matthieu Jalibert: The dynamic French international flyhalf who expertly directs the team’s attack.
South African connections in the UBB squad include prop Carlu Sadie and Jean-Luc du Preez, making this clash an exciting homecoming for some of the visitors. The team is also home to bullocking centre Rohan Janse van Rensburg. Moreover, one of their senior coaches is former Bok Shaun Sowerby.
As ever, Loftus will lay out the red carpet for fans.
Headline Attractions
- The match: The Vodacom Bulls host French giants Union Bordeaux Bègles in the Investec Champions Cup, the last home game at Loftus for 2025.
- Massive cash prize: One lucky person will win a guaranteed R25 000 to kickstart their holiday, plus an additional R25 000 for a charity. This is promoted as the Zebra crossing game at halftime.
Value and Ticket Offer
- Affordable tickets: Tickets for the Eastern Stand are priced at just R80.
- Free entry for kids: Kids under 18 enter FREE on the Eastern Stand.
Matchday Experience and Entertainment
The event is designed as a full-day experience with gates opening at 2pm:
- Pre-game action (D-Field):
- Extended kids area.
- Fan engagement.
- Music from DJ Thabiso.
- The D-Field area includes a SIX GUN truck and activations from Richelieu and SAB.
- Stadium warm-up (A-Field):
- Live musical performance by Christiaan Baartman.
- Entertainment from the Zebra Band and Sebs Elite.
Ⓒ Pic courtesy Tristan Myburgh
