29/01/2025
BOB SKINSTAD BLASTS CHAMPIONS CUP ORGANISERS: “SOUTH AFRICAN TEAMS ARE BEING COMPROMISED” 🏉
Former Springbok legend Bob Skinstad has criticized the Investec Champions Cup organisers, accusing them of sidelining South African teams and harming the tournament’s integrity.
In a hard-hitting statement, Skinstad highlighted several structural issues, including scheduling and hosting rights, which he believes place South African franchises like the Bulls, Lions, Sharks, and Stormers at a significant disadvantage.
This story was first reported by SportsClimax, where Skinstad urged South African teams to push back and demand fair treatment. (Read more on SportsClimax here)
“SOUTH AFRICAN TEAMS AT A DISADVANTAGE”
Skinstad didn’t mince his words, expressing frustration over South Africa’s inability to host Champions Cup semi-finals or finals. This stems from the fact that South Africa is not a shareholder in the URC or EPCR.
Reflecting on the situation, Skinstad said:
“It can be incredibly frustrating, especially if we don’t have an agreed global season. Can you imagine if you are one of the commercial managers of the teams, and the Sharks or someone can’t host fixtures? Toulouse going to Durban was fantastic.”
Skinstad lamented that such missed opportunities impact both fans and the financial sustainability of the competition:
“These are highlight games, why can’t we get more of them? South African teams not being able to host these play-off games is hugely detrimental to the finances and the sustainability of the tournaments. I think it’s silly, for sure!”
A CALL TO SPEAK OUT
While SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer recently advised franchises to stop complaining, Skinstad has urged them to do the opposite, calling for louder demands for change:
“South African teams participating in European rugby is a good thing, it’s good for South Africa and Europe. But until we repair the scheduling, South African teams will remain at a disadvantage.”
He also highlighted the challenges caused by overlapping competitions:
1. South African teams face longer travel distances, making away games more grueling.
2. The domestic Currie Cup overlaps with the Champions Cup, stretching resources thin.
3. The tournament schedule favors northern hemisphere teams, further complicating matters for SA franchises.
“I want us to play in the Champions Cup, but I am not a fan of the [South African] teams bowing to the fact that the scheduling needs to happen in a certain manner. They have been compromised more than anyone else.”
COACHES FORCED TO PRIORITIZE
The demanding schedule has left South African teams in a bind, often forcing them to field weakened squads in European competitions to prioritize the URC or Currie Cup.
Skinstad explained:
“Coaches sometimes have to gamble, prioritizing URC qualification for next season’s Champions Cup. It’s a tough situation compounded by an overlapping schedule. Until there’s a global season, this issue will persist.”
LOOKING AHEAD: CAN SOUTH AFRICAN TEAMS SUCCEED?
Despite his criticisms, Skinstad remains optimistic about the long-term potential of South African teams in European competitions. He reiterated that their inclusion benefits both regions but stressed that meaningful structural reforms are crucial for fair competition:
“South African teams not being able to host play-off games is hugely detrimental. It’s time for the organisers to fix these glaring issues and level the playing field.”
As the debate continues, the ball is now in the organisers’ court to address these concerns. South African fans, stakeholders, and franchises are watching closely, hoping for much-needed changes.
Story by JustPlainSport .com
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