- John Dobson believes the Stormers have a bigger role to play in building South African interest in European rugby
- The Cape Town side is preparing for a Champions Cup opener that offers a fresh challenge for local supporters
- The Stormers coach has explained why a strong campaign could matter beyond results on the pitch
Source: Getty Images
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson wants a South African team to reach the Investec Champions Cup final this season, arguing that success could strengthen the country's connection with one of Europe's biggest club rugby competitions.
The Cape Town side begins its 2026/27 campaign against Bristol Bears at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 17 October. Dobson believes South African participation adds value to the local rugby calendar and wants the Stormers to prove they belong among the competition's leading sides.
Speaking to SA Rugby Magazine on 13 October 2026, Dobson said:
“We need a South African team to make a semi-final or a final this season. From our side, we want to respect it, and the way to do that is to do well in it.”
The Stormers have reached the knockout stages in three of their four Champions Cup campaigns since South African clubs entered the competition. However, they are still chasing their first semi-final appearance.
Stormers coach explains why Champions Cup matters
Dobson believes the tournament gives South African teams an opportunity to measure themselves against elite European opposition.
“I think our inventory for the public here in Cape Town would look poorer without this and without our participation,” he said.
“It’s a prestigious competition. We want to test ourselves against the best teams in the world. We want to be at the top table of world rugby, so we’re desperate to stay part of it.”
He also acknowledged that local supporters are still becoming familiar with some of the European clubs.
“It’s a year behind the URC with the South African public,” Dobson explained, adding that supporters now recognise teams such as the Ospreys but have less experience of watching Bristol and Bordeaux.
Bristol Bears visit gives Stormers marketing opportunity
The match against Bristol also offers the Stormers an opportunity to attract new interest. Dobson said announcing the team early could help supporters plan their weekend around the fixture.
“It was such a special occasion last week [with the new black kit], and we want to market these events,” he said.
He added that seeing familiar players in the line-up could encourage supporters to attend.
“Hopefully, if you see some of your local heroes, whether that’s Deon Fourie, Ruhan Nel or Siya Kolisi, they’re in the team you can plan your Saturday around it. It’s more considerate to the public as well.”
For the Stormers, the immediate challenge is to start their European campaign strongly. A deep run would give Dobson the result he wants while helping build greater interest in the Champions Cup among South African supporters.
Source: Getty Images
Champions Cup introduces new system for controversial decisions
Briefly News previously reported that the Investec Champions Cup and Challenge Cup are introducing a new system to handle controversial decisions during knockout matches. The changes could affect how key moments are reviewed when the pressure is at its highest.
The move comes as South African teams prepare for another European campaign, with questions about officiating and the role of broadcasters adding another talking point to the competitions.
Source: Briefly News
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