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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

How to Watch European Rugby Champions Cup Online in 2024

Ernest Sheptalo Fact-checked by Ryan Jones Senior Writer

The European Rugby Champions Cup is available to stream across several platforms worldwide. ITVX and RTÉ Player are fantastic choices for those looking to watch some games, including the final, for free. On the other hand, TNT Sports has got you covered for the entire Investec Champions Cup competition (formerly named Heineken Cup), though it requires a subscription.

It's important to remember, however, that most of the services broadcasting the event live are geo-restricted, meaning you can't use them to watch the action unless you have an IP address originating from the right country.

While a VPN could technically allow you to change your IP address and stream the European Rugby Champions Cup on any platform from anywhere, this approach often conflicts with the T&Cs of streaming platforms and could be viewed as a breach of copyright laws.

If you just want to watch the European Rugby Champions Cup privately and interruption-free, I recommend ExpressVPN. It works well with numerous streaming services that air the tournament, ensuring your online activity remains untracked and free of the constant buffering caused by ISP throttling. Better yet, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test its capabilities without risk. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Stream Rugby Live in HD >>

Quick Guide: How to Watch European Rugby Champions Cup With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it allows you to reliably and securely stream European Rugby Champions Cup games in HD buffer-free. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Connect to a local server. Closeby servers will provide the best speeds for streaming.
  3. Start watching rugby. Log in to your preferred streaming service and watch the European Rugby Champions Cup without interruptions.
Important: My colleagues and I are strictly opposed to any violations of copyright laws. The VPN services we endorse adhere to rigorous no-logs policies, guaranteeing that your online activities remain unmonitored. This means you alone are accountable for utilizing your VPN in a manner that complies with all relevant regulations and laws.

Best VPNs to Securely Watch the European Rugby Champions Cup in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Impressive Speeds to Watch the European Rugby Champions Cup in HD Without Delays

Best Feature Consistently fast speeds, ideal for securely streaming the European Rugby Champions Cup
Server Network 3,000 servers in 105 countries
Average Speed 115.5Mbps (5% slower than my usual connection)
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, Chromecast, Smart TVs, routers, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN I tested, allowing me to easily stream live rugby games in HD buffer-free. In fact, I only recorded a 5% drop from my usual speeds during my tests. This is impressive, as most VPNs slow you down by over 50%. Plus, its advanced servers are highly reliable, ensuring I could stream European Rugby Champions Cup games without ever experiencing any slowdowns.

Plus, ExpressVPN works very well with streaming platforms that broadcast the European Rugby Champions Cup. Its servers are built for both stability and compatibility with numerous streaming websites, ensuring you can enjoy every match in high quality without interruptions. Case in point: I watched European Rugby Champions Cup matches without issue on YouTube TV and FloRugby while I was in the US.

A screenshot showing ExpressVPN connected to a US server that works with FloRugbyExpressVPN offers plenty of reliable servers for safe, buffer-free streaming

ExpressVPN works seamlessly across various devices, from laptops to smart TVs, letting you watch the European Rugby Champions Cup privately on your preferred device. It even offers extensions for popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. The intuitive interface and easy installation process also allows you to stream the matches you’re excited for with minimal fuss. I set it up on my iPhone in less than 2 minutes.

One drawback is the expensive price tag. Luckily, ExpressVPN runs frequent discounts to make it more wallet-friendly. When I opted for a 12-month plan, I got 48% off and 3 extra months for free, bringing the price down to just $6.67/month. Plus, the 30-day money-back guarantee means there's no risk in trying it — if you aren’t a fan, you can easily get a refund.

Useful Features

  • Split tunneling. ExpressVPN allows you to selectively use the VPN for certain apps while others continue to use your standard internet connection. So you can safely stream the Investec Champions Cup through a local VPN server while simultaneously gaming online with your regular, low-latency internet connection (VPN connections typically increase ping).
  • MediaStreamer. This feature lets you watch the European Rugby Champions Cup without slowdowns on devices that don't natively support VPNs, such as Smart TVs and gaming consoles (Xbox and PlayStation).
  • Works on restrictive networks. ExpressVPN disguises your VPN activity as regular internet traffic. This allows you to stream rugby even on restrictive networks that may block VPNs, such as those at schools or workplaces.
  • Bypass ISP throttling. Many ISPs purposely throttle the speeds of customers who are streaming, in an attempt to save on bandwidth. ExpressVPN hides your streaming activity, so your ISP won’t know to throttle you. This lets you watch the European Rugby Champions Cup in the highest quality without any instances of buffering.
ExpressVPN Offer October 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 48% off! Don't miss out!

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Reliably Stream the European Rugby Champions Cup

Best Feature Optimized servers for various sports streaming platforms that let you safely enjoy the European Rugby Champions Cup without hassle
Server Network 11,690 servers in 100 countries
Average Speed 110.6Mbps (9% slower than my usual connection)
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, Smart TVs, routers, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

CyberGhost comes with streaming-optimized servers for RTÉ Player, YouTube TV, France TV, and Digi, letting you watch the European Rugby Champions Cup reliably. These specialized servers undergo regular checks to maintain optimal performance with their associated platforms. Our team in Ireland conducted thorough tests on the server optimized for RTÉ Player, and they always got a seamless connection for live sports streaming.

What’s more, CyberGhost’s apps stand out for their user-friendliness. It's easy to find the right streaming server for example — simply open the app, select For streaming, and type the name of the platform you’re looking to stream with in the search bar. Then, pick the appropriate server and click Connect. You can also mark this server as a “Favorite” by clicking the star icon, which places the server in your Favorites tab for even easier access later.

A screenshot showing CyberGhost's intuitive user interfaceCyberGhost streaming servers made it easy to watch rugby matches in the highest quality

Second only to ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s fast speeds allow you to stream the European Rugby Champions Cup without interruptions. It leverages a vast network of high-quality and fast servers. As such, I could securely watch every European Rugby Champions Cup match live in HD quality.

The only drawback of the service is the cost of its monthly subscriptions, which are on the higher side and only offer a limited refund period (just 14 days). However, the long-term plans present a more affordable option, beginning at just $2.19/month. These plans also feature an extended money-back guarantee, allowing you to test CyberGhost for free for up to 45 days.

Useful Features

  • Ad blocker. This feature effectively removes disruptive ads and pop-ups, allowing you to seamlessly stream your anticipated European Rugby Champions Cup games.
  • Private streaming sessions. CyberGhost encrypts your connection, which means that ad networks and other snoops can’t spy on your rugby streaming activity.
  • Smart rules. This feature lets you automate CyberGhost to connect to a preferred server in your country whenever you open your browser to stream the European Rugby Champions Cup.
October 2024 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 83% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Unlimited Device Connections to Watch Rugby on All Your Devices

Best Feature Your whole family can watch the European Rugby Champions Cup on their preferred devices at the same time
Server Network 29,650 servers in 91 countries
Average Speed 102.1Mbps (15.8% slower than my usual connection)
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, Chromecast, Smart TVs, routers, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

PIA allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections, meaning you can safely stream the European Rugby Champions Cup on all your devices at the same time. This feature ensures that you, along with friends and family, can watch different matches simultaneously without compromising on connection quality or speed — perfect for those rugby-filled weekends. I tested PIA myself, and there were no declines in streaming quality even with 7 active connections.

A screenshot showing a list of devices PIA supportsPIA also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera

PIA is also highly customizable, allowing you to balance your connection between speed and security. You can tailor your VPN experience as you go, prioritizing faster speeds while streaming the European Rugby Champions Cup and enhancing security whenever you’re inputting sensitive information online, such as when you’re signing up for a streaming service.

That said, the number of customization options might be daunting if you’re new to VPNs. However, it’s important to note that the service comes pre-configured for streaming — so you can start watching rugby games without needing to tweak any settings.

Useful Features

  • Affordable subscriptions. You can get PIA’s long-term plan for as low as $2.19/month. If you're on the fence about committing, don't worry. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test PIA totally risk-free.
  • Streaming-optimized servers. Similar to CyberGhost, PIA has several servers dedicated to streaming. These are located in the US, the UK, Canada, the Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, Finland, and Italy.
October 2024 Update: PIA doesn't usually have deals or discounts (it's already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 82% off!

Where Can I Watch the European Rugby Champions Cup Online?

The following streaming platforms all broadcast the European Rugby Champions Cup. With them, you can find out whether La Rochelle, led by the remarkable Ronan O'Gara, will make history by clinching their third consecutive cup.

Streaming Platform Locations Free Trial
FloRugby
(FloSports app)
US, Canada
TNT Sports
(rebranded from BT Sport)
UK, Ireland
You can subscribe to TNT Sports through Discovery+, BT, EE, Sky, Virgin Media, Now TV, Vodafone, and Amazon Prime
ESPN Play Latin America
YouTube TV US
7 days
EPCR TV Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia & Herz., Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Türkiye, Ukraine, Pacific Islands
More Than Sports Austria, Germany, Switzerland
It can be accessed via various platforms, including Magenta TV, waipu.tv, Amazon Fire TV, Zattoo, and Swisscom
Viaplay Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden
7 days
beIN Sports Australia, France
France TV France
France TV offers live streaming of 2 matches in every round of the pool stages of the tournament on its free-to-air platform
GO Malta
Polsat Box Go Poland
RTÉ Player Ireland
RTÉ will televise 8 free-to-air matches of the season, including the European Rugby Champions Cup final
ITVX UK
ITVX will televise one match per round (including the European Rugby Champions Cup final) for free
S4C Clic UK
S4C Clic will televise one match per round (including the European Rugby Champions Cup final) for free
Amazon Prime Video Many international locations, but only selected games are available
(you can also get TNT Sports via Amazon Prime)

30 days
Sky Sport New Zealand
DIGI Romania
Sport TV Portugal
Premier Sports Asia Southeast Asia
Super Sport Many African countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya
Available via the DStv app or the Showmax Pro service

Bear in mind that the platforms on this list enforce geoblocks, and can only be accessed from certain regions. These streaming services utilize your IP address to identify your geographical location, and if you are outside an area with broadcasting rights, access will be denied.

European Rugby Champions Cup Schedule

Here’s the remaining schedule for the European Rugby Champions Cup 2023/24 season. The knockout stage will begin with 16 teams and start on April 5, concluding with the Champions Cup final on May 25 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.

Game Time
Harlequins vs Glasgow Warriors April 5, 2024
Bulls vs Lyon April 6, 2024
Exeter Chiefs vs Bath April 6, 2024
Stormers vs La Rochelle April 6, 2024
Bordeaux-Bègles vs Saracens April 6, 2024
Leinster vs Leicester Tigers April 6, 2024
Northampton Saints vs Munster April 7, 2024
Toulouse vs Racing 92 April 7, 2024
Quarter-finals April 12/13/14, 2024
Semi-finals May 3/4/5, 2024
Final May 25, 2024

FAQs on Watching the European Rugby Champions Cup With a VPN

How can I watch the European Rugby Champions Cup in the USA and Australia online for free?

Unfortunately, there aren't any free platforms in the US or Australia that broadcast the European Rugby Champions Cup. That being said, you can get a 30-day free trial with Amazon Prime Video in both countries, allowing you to watch certain games for free for some time. If you’re in the US, you can catch any game on YouTube TV using its trial, but it only lasts a measly 7 days.

Is the European Rugby Champions Cup available on Amazon Prime Video?

Only some games are available on Amazon Prime Video. Plus, the availability of European Rugby Champions Cup matches can vary by region and over time due to the nature of broadcasting rights agreements.

Where can I watch the European Rugby Champions Cup full match replays?

There are several options for watching full match replays of the European Rugby Champions Cup. For the best experience, I’d recommend using a premium VPN to ensure buffer-free streaming. With that out of the way, here’s a breakdown of known services offering replay access:

  • Official tournament website or app. The European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) website or its official app might offer replays of some matches.
  • Streaming services. The streaming services that broadcast the matches live, such as TNT Sport in the UK or beIN Sports in some other countries, often have on-demand services where you can watch replays.
  • YouTube. Sometimes, the official channel of the tournament or participating clubs may post full match replays or extensive highlights on YouTube.

What is the format for the European Rugby Champions Cup?

The European Rugby Champions Cup follows a specific format that combines pool stages and knockout rounds. If you want to stream the competition securely, I’d highly recommend choosing one of our top-rated VPNs. With that in mind, here’s how the tournament progresses:

  1. Qualifying. 24 clubs qualify for the Champions Cup via their final positions in their respective national or regional leagues (Gallagher Premiership, French Top 14, and United Rugby Championship) or via winning the second-tier Challenge Cup. The clubs come from the Leagues and Unions of the six nations (England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Wales) and South Africa.
  2. Pool stage. Teams from various European leagues are divided into four pools of six. Each team plays others in its pool home and away, earning points for wins, draws, and bonus performances.
  3. Knockout rounds. The top teams and the best runners-up from the pools advance to the knockout stages, which includes quarter-finals, and the semi-finals.
  4. The final. The winners of the semi-finals compete in a single match at a predetermined venue to determine the champion.

Can I use a free VPN to watch the European Rugby Champions Cup?

Possibly, but with severe limitations. Free VPNs often offer limited bandwidth and server options, which can lead to buffering issues during live sports events. Instead, it's recommended to opt for a paid VPN service with a trustworthy money-back guarantee for watching the European Rugby Champions Cup.

Some free VPNs might even log and sell your data to third parties for profit. It’s also not uncommon for some of the dodgier ones to install malware and trackers on your device.

Securely Watch the European Rugby Champions Cup in Minutes

Watching the European Rugby Champions Cup in top-notch quality is a breeze with a good VPN. The ones I've picked out are great for catching rugby games online without interruptions, and also ensure a high-quality stream even when watching live.

ExpressVPN is my go-to for enjoying live rugby matches. It's very user-friendly, with a wide array of servers to choose from. Plus, its excellent speeds mean you can enjoy the competition without any annoying buffering. Best of all, it’s possible to try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 thanks to its money-back guarantee. This way, you can see how well it works for you without worrying about losing money.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for watching the European Rugby Champions Cup...

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Ernest Sheptalo is a Senior Writer at vpnMentor, and an expert in the field of VPNs. Ernest creates detailed reviews, comparisons, and guides that assist people in navigating the web safely, protecting their online data from theft.

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