Heineken Cup quarter-finals go global

The Heineken Cup really is reaching new parts – the quarter-finals will be beamed around the world and televised either live or delayed in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, Asia and the Middle East.

The phenomenal popularity of Europe’s premier club tournament means millions more rugby supporters will view the matches at Stradey Park, Le Stadium de Toulouse, Lansdowne Road and Welford Road.

As well as RTE, Sky Sports (New Zealand); Fox Sports (Australia); Supersport (South Africa); TV3 (Spain); Showtime Sports (Middle East) and Astro / Starhub / BBTV (Asia) will provide the matches and competition with a genuine global audience.

“In addition to the extent of television coverage in Europe, we are delighted to see the growth of the tournament reflected in the growing interest in the event on a global basis,” said Derek McGrath, the ERC Chief Executive.

And for the first time all the Heineken Cup quarter-finals will have television match officials (TMOs) on duty with a video referee on hand to assist the referee when requested.

“We introduced the TMO to the semi-finals last year and, with the increasing profile of the tournament, and the growth and importance of these games, it is right to match the expectations of all spectators. After consultations with the quarter-finalists, we can confirm that TMOs will operate at the four venues,” said McGrath.