The quest for a first English winner of the Investec Champions Cup in over five years is about more than just silverware. With a pivotal vote on a new franchise model for Premiership Rugby looming in the coming weeks, success on the European stage has become a critical shop window for attracting vital investment.
European Glory as a Investment Magnet
Despite a heavy defeat to tournament favourites Bordeaux Begles on the weekend of Friday 16 January 2026, Phil Dowson's Northampton Saints remain in contention. They are part of a strong English cohort, with Bristol Bears and Bath Rugby also flying high, and Harlequins among those already qualified for the next round.
The connection is clear. As clubs prepare investment decks for prospective buyers, mirroring approaches seen in cricket's Hundred, demonstrating an ability to compete with the financial powerhouses of the French Top 14 and the United Rugby Championship is essential. Winning the Champions Cup may not directly boost club profits, but it signals elite status and competitive credibility.
Premiership Clubs in the Shop Window
Several English clubs are already presenting attractive profiles for potential investors. Northampton Saints, for instance, are seen as ripe for investment. They consistently sell out their stadium, dominate their regional sports market, and operate with only a small financial loss, despite their recent European setback.
Bristol Bears, unbeaten in the pool stages and owned by Steve Lansdown, offer another compelling case. Lansdown recently realised £58 million from Hargreaves Lansdown and set a precedent for share sales by offloading a stake in his women's football team to Mercury13 last year.
Bath Rugby represents a different proposition, carrying significant debt from a single owner's support, but their upward trajectory and plans for a new stadium make them an investable opportunity.
The Stakes for the Franchise Model
The overarching point is that while investable opportunities exist across the Premiership, deep runs in the Champions Cup automatically enhance a club's global appeal. For the proposed franchise system, backed by both Premiership Rugby and the RFU, to succeed in drawing substantial capital, English teams must prove they can consistently challenge on the biggest continental stage.
The performance of Saints, Bears, and Bath in the latter stages of this season's tournament will be watched closely, not just by fans, but by the investment community worldwide.
Former England Sevens captain Ollie Phillips, founder of Optimist Performance, is rowing the Atlantic to raise money for MND charities. You can donate and follow his journey at World’s Toughest Row.
