Toyota Cheetahs’ historic first-time matchups in the EPCR Challenge Cup

The Toyota Cheetahs will make history in the 2025/26 EPCR Challenge Cup as they prepare for their first-ever encounters against Exeter Chiefs, Racing 92 and Stade Français Paris. The team previously faced Ulster Rugby during their participation in the Guinness PRO14 from 2017 until the competition concluded in 2020.

The northern tour begins on Sunday, 7 December, when the Cheetahs meet the Chiefs at Sandy Park Stadium in Exeter, kicking off at 7.30pm (SAST).

From there, the team travels to their European base in the Netherlands for their historic home match against Stade Français Paris on Saturday, 13 December at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam, starting at 3pm (SAST). Supporters attending in Amsterdam can look forward to South African flavours, including traditional boerie rolls prepared on the braai.

After the festive break, the Toyota Cheetahs return to the NRCA Stadium for a Round 3 home fixture against Ulster Rugby on Saturday, 11 January 2026 at 5.15pm (SAST).

In line with EPCR requirements, the Toyota Cheetahs will host both Amsterdam fixtures as their designated home matches. Free State Rugby extends its appreciation to Rugby Nederland for sharing its home venue.

Tickets for the Amsterdam matches on 13 December and 11 January are available via rugby.nl’s online ticket shop.

The team’s final pool match sees another historic first-time meeting as the Toyota Cheetahs travel to France to face Racing 92 at Paris La Défense Arena on 18 January, kicking off at 7.30pm (SAST).

All fixtures will be broadcast live on SuperSport.