Gloucester and Bordeaux draw 36-36 in Champions Cup thriller

Gloucester and holders Bordeaux Begles began the 2026 Champions Cup season with a gripping 36-36 draw at Kingsholm, a match that saw both sides trade blows in a high-octane contest ^[1]. The French champions, aiming for a third consecutive title, looked to be in trouble after trailing 24-17 at half-time, but a strong second-half surge nearly saw them snatch victory ^[2].

Gloucester’s George Barton kicked four conversions and scored a try, while Will Trenholm’s brace in the second half gave the hosts a 36-29 lead, sparking hopes of a win ^[1]. However, France international Louis Bielle-Biarrey responded with his second try of the game, converted by Maxime Lucu, to level the scores and deny Gloucester a first win of the season ^[2].

The match, refereed by Gianluca Gnecchi from Italy, featured intense pressure and relentless attacks, with neither side able to find a winning score in the closing minutes ^[1]. Before kick-off, a moment’s silence was held in memory of Lions lock Hyron Andrews, who died aged 31 at the South African team’s hotel the previous day. The Lions are set to play their scheduled Champions Cup fixture in Andrews’ honour on Saturday, with further tributes planned across the opening round.

In the Challenge Cup, Dragons secured a 29-14 win over Perpignan, with tries from Jared Rosser, Aneurin Owen, Anzelo Tuitavuki, and Fetuli Paea, while Tinus de Beer added three penalties ^[2]. Edinburgh, meanwhile, suffered a 27-17 defeat to Toulon, with Malvyn Jaminet scoring 22 points for the French side. The story was first reported by BBC News and The Independent.