The European Challenge Cup, currently known as the Amlin Challenge Cup, is one of two annual rugby union competitions organised by European Rugby Cup. It is the second tier European rugby union competition behind the Heineken Cup. Visit the World Rugby Shop for the best official rugby gear from around the world.
Biarritz Olympique have won a European title at the third time of asking - and captain Imanol Harinordoquy described their 2012 Amlin Challenge Cup Final victory at the Twickenham Stoop as "incredible, fantastic."
By the time Jonny Wilkinson had emerged from a desperately disappointed Toulon changing room he had already moved on to the next challenge.
All roads are leading to London when both the 2012 Heineken Cup and Amlin Challenge Cup finals will be staged in close proximity over the space of 24 hours.
A fine kicking performance by French scrumhalf Dimitri Yachvili saw Biarritz to a 19-0 victory over 1997 European Cup winners Brive in their Amlin Challenge Cup semifinal on Saturday.
Biarritz became the third French club to book a place in the Amlin Challenge Cup semifinals - and London Wasps the third English club to bow out - but the the French giants were given a real scare before edging hom 26-23 in the quarterfinal at Adams Park.
Samoan international centre Paul Williams turned into a 79th minute match-winner as he ran in the try that broke the hearts of Exeter Chiefs at Stade Charlety and earned Stade Francais a 22-17 win and a trip to either Toulon or Harlequins in the Amlin Challenge Cup semifinals.
Toulon's English flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson said Thursday he was wary of Premiership leaders Harlequins which the French club will meet Friday in the Challenge Cup quarterfinals.
Biarritz Olympique have contested 12 Heineken Cup tournaments - and Iain Balshaw believes they will only make that 13 if they go all the way and win the Amlin Challenge Cup Final at the Twickenham Stoop on Friday, May 18, and qualify as the tournament champions.
Nick Evans is sweating on being fit to spearhead Harlequins' Amlin Challenge Cup quarterfinal bid against Toulon at Stade Felix Mayol on Friday.
The European Cup and Challenge Cup tournaments for the 2012/13 season will kick off on October 11, organisers announced on Wednesday.
Exeter Chiefs wing Gonzalo Camacho is aiming to become only the second player in Amlin Challenge Cup history to win back-to-back titles ¿ and once again break the hearts of Stade Fran¿ais supporters.
One of the biggest weekends in the European club rugby calendar will kick-off with the first Amlin Challenge Cup quarterfinal contest, between last season's finalists, Stade Francais and the Exeter Chiefs.
The New Zealand All Blacks are wearing this new rugby jersey during their training sessions. Get in the Gear.
Price: $74.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
Heineken Cup holders Leinster will defend their title against Ulster on May 19. Get in the Gear!
Price: $89.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
Ulster will look to win their first Heineken Cup title since 1998/99 on May 19 against Leinster.
Price: $19.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
A World Rugby Shop exclusive in the U.S., Stade Francais rugby gear. Make a statement.
Price: $74.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
miCoach is being introduced in the game of Rugby. The latest addition to the soft ground collection is the adizero RS7 Pro II Rugby Boot!
Price: $199.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
Rugby Match Ticker
Follow LIVE rugby action from around the globe with Rugby Rugby!
The World Rugby Shop has the best selection of official and team rugby gear from around the globe. Shop for your rugby gear today!
