- Joined
- Jan 16, 2020
- Messages
- 4,864
I totally see what you're saying and don't necessarily disagree with you but rugby has always been partial to this kind of thing. As a sport we've only had world cups since the late 80s and European club competitions since what the mid/late 90s? In terms of identity and things like that it's a bit different to say, football.As an Englishman I'm ambivalent how this competition is structured. Everyone seems happy enough, which is great.
I don't though like the idea of the SA sides in the Champions Cup. Used to have a clear purpose in establishing Europe's premier club - still a local dust up but a step up from leagues and a bit more exotic. Now it won't be continental, or even hemispherical. Best in time zone perhaps? The SA teams will bring something to the party and others will see it differently, but for me the competition will lose a bit of identity and soul.
Obviously it depends on your definition of sole or identity or your perspective on things but, for me, most popular sport has lost its sole as money corrupts everything to varying degrees but especially in sport where you have people who really cherish that sport on an emotional level.
As I say, though, I get what you're saying and you're right, elite European club competitions should be for European clubs but it is what it is I suppose.
I doubt this will be permanent anyway.