Updates on the Current United Rugby Championship
With September fast approaching, the new United Rugby Championship season is almost upon us. Here’s a quick catch‑up on where things stand and what we can expect.
A Look Back at 2024–25
The 2024–25 season wrapped up on 14 June with Leinster cruising to a 32–7 win over the Bulls at Croke Park, ending a four-year trophy drought in front of a record 46,127 fans.
RG Snyman was named Players’ Player of the Year, Ioan Lloyd took the Golden Boot, and Harri Millard topped the try-scoring charts with nine.
What’s Coming This September
With the new URC season kicking off on 26 September, there’s plenty to get stuck into already—form guides, big signings, and a few fresh faces who might shake things up.
Leinster begin as defending champions and early favourites, but they’re straight into the deep end with a tricky opener away to the Stormers. With several players recovering from the Lions tour, it’s a sharp early test.
The Bulls, beaten finalists last season, have reloaded with serious intent by bringing in big names like Handré Pollard and Jan Serfontein. They’ve got the squad, the experience, and every reason to believe they can go one better this time.
Who to Watch Out For
Fintan Gunne made his mark off the bench with a try in the Grand Final, and the young Leinster scrum-half looks ready for a bigger role. Gus McCarthy, another academy product, brings leadership and sharp progression from U20 level.
Over in South Africa, the Sharks’ Jurenzo ‘The Boogie Man’ Julius, still just 21, offers serious pace and versatility out wide.
Ulster, meanwhile, are in rebuild mode. Financial pressure and key exits mean they’re backing youth, with Jack Murphy and Scott Wilson among those stepping up. It’s a gamble that could pay off, or show the cracks.
What to Watch Out For
The festive derbies in December remain a fixture highlight, as always. And come the back half of the season, the focus will shift to the ‘Race to the Eight’—the crucial push for play-off places and Champions Cup qualification. That’s usually when the table tightens and margins get razor-thin.
Final Thoughts
In short, URC fans have plenty to be excited about. Leinster look to build on their momentum, South African teams will aim to reclaim bragging rights, and traditional rivals are itching to unsettle the champions. With packed calendars, passionate support, and new storylines already heating up, this season promises to set pulses racing from Day 1.
