🏆 Official result — 23 May 2026
UBB prevail against Leinster and retain their title of European champions 2026! A second consecutive crown for Union Bordeaux Bègles, who definitively enter the circle of the great nations of European rugby.
This Saturday 23 May 2026, at 3:45 pm, the San Mamés stadium in Bilbao was the stage for the biggest European rugby match of the season. For the second year in a row, Union Bordeaux Bègles played in the Champions Cup final — and won it. A historic feat for a club that, barely ten years ago, was playing in Pro D2.
Facing them, the Leinster, an Irish giant and four-time European champion in search of a fifth crown, fell. For Bordeaux, it is confirmation that the 2025 title was not an isolated flash — UBB definitively write their name into the history of European rugby.
- The 2026 final: UBB against Leinster
- UBB, the sporting soul of Bordeaux
- Following the match from Bordeaux
- Getting to the Chaban-Delmas Stadium with a private chauffeur
- Frequently asked questions — Rugby, UBB and travel
The 2026 final: UBB against Leinster in Bilbao
The entire Bordeaux rugby ecosystem converges on this day. Union Bordeaux Bègles reach the final after an impressive European run, punctuated by a semi-final won 38-26 against Bath. Opposite, Leinster brushed aside Mourad Boudjellal’s Toulon and its internationals 29-25 in an equally tight semi-final. For fans who want to follow the in-depth analysis, the coverage of RMC Sport Rugby remains one of the most complete on this competition.
The time and place
Kick-off at 3:45 pm this Saturday 23 May at the San Mamés stadium in Bilbao, a 53,000-seat venue that the EPCR (European Professional Club Rugby) chose for its atmosphere and its accessibility. Broadcast on France 2 and beIN Sports.
The players to watch
On the UBB side, several French internationals will carry the club’s ambitions: Matthieu Jalibert at fly-half, Maxime Lucu at scrum-half, Damian Penaud and Louis Bielle-Biarrey on the wings. Four players who are part of the France XV — a considerable asset for this final.
A convincing run to the final
Throughout the European season, UBB confirmed their tactical maturity. Present in the round of 16 against the Sharks, in the quarter-finals against the Saracens, then in the semi-final against Bath, the club never seemed in defensive difficulty. The set piece, long the historic weak point of the Gironde side, has become one of their most solid pillars.
UBB, the sporting soul of Bordeaux
Beyond the trophy cabinet, UBB tell a Bordeaux story that goes beyond the sporting framework alone.
From popular club to European giant
A 2006 merger of the Club Athlétique Bordeaux-Bègles Gironde and the Stade Bordelais, UBB were built patiently. Promotion to the Top 14 in 2011, first European semi-finals in 2020, first European title in 2025. A decade to go from challenger status to that of a benchmark.
A team that transcends rugby
The Chaban-Delmas Stadium, the second-largest stadium in France by its capacity dedicated to rugby, vibrates at every match. On home days, it is all of Bordeaux that gets in step with the club: packed trams, city-centre streets black with supporters, terraces crowded at the end of the match. Rugby has become one of the major identity markers of the city.
How to follow the match from Bordeaux
If you stay in Bordeaux to follow the final, several options are available to you depending on your supporter profile.
| Option | Atmosphere | Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Zone Chaban-Delmas | Whole stadium, giant screen | 20,000+ | Free |
| City-centre bars | Convivial, intimate | 30-200 | Drinks |
| Place de la Bourse / quays | Festive, public screens | Variable | Free |
| At home / at friends’ | Calm, comfortable | — | — |
The official Fan Zone at the Chaban-Delmas Stadium remains the must-do option: broadcast on a giant screen, pre-match atmosphere, catering on site. A real supporter communion experienced collectively.
Getting to the Chaban-Delmas Stadium with a private chauffeur
Whether for a Top 14 match, a European Cup, or the Fan Zone of a big final, access to the Chaban-Delmas Stadium remains a logistical ordeal. Packed tram, limited parking, end-of-match returns at off-peak hours — so many frictions that a private chauffeur eliminates in one stroke.
The private chauffeur option for matches
You are dropped off directly 200 metres from the stadium, ready to reach your stand without walking 1 km from the tram. At the final whistle, your chauffeur is already on the spot: you save 30 to 45 minutes compared to the tram scramble / overloaded ride-hailing.
Group transport for fans
Are you 6 to 7 supporters together for a match? Our 7-seater vehicle is the most economical solution. Fixed rate shared between passengers, atmosphere preserved, and nobody sacrifices themselves to drive instead of the others.
A relaxed return after the match
The return after a big match is typically the most tense moment logistically: the whole stadium wants to leave at the same time, the tram runs 5-minute rotations but saturated, the ride-hailing platforms apply their price multipliers. With a booking in advance at Bordeaux Privilège, your rate is fixed, your chauffeur waits for you exactly at the agreed spot, and you are home 20 minutes after the whistle.
Frequently asked questions — Rugby, UBB and travel
How much does a trip to the Chaban-Delmas Stadium with a private chauffeur cost?
From the centre of Bordeaux, allow around 20-25 € one way. For supporters coming from Mérignac, Pessac or Bègles, the rate is calculated according to the classic grid of urban trips. For a round trip booked in advance, enjoy the 20% discount.
Can we book for UBB home matches all season?
Yes, and it is even recommended. Top 14 match days at Chaban-Delmas generate very strong ride-hailing demand 1h before and 1h after kick-off. Book 24 to 48h in advance to guarantee availability.
Do you accept groups of more than 7 people?
Beyond 7 passengers, we mobilise a pair of vehicles with two chauffeurs in convoy, at a negotiated rate. Ideal for rugby stag/hen parties, birthdays among supporters or company delegations at the stadium.
Is there a discount for UBB season-ticket holders?
We are working on a supporter loyalty partnership that will be unveiled in autumn 2026. In the meantime, present your season-ticket card when booking: we study preferential terms on a case-by-case basis.
What if I want to follow the final in Bilbao live?
Bilbao is located 4h30 of road from Bordeaux. For supporters travelling as a group to the San Mamés, we offer a long-distance day package on quote. Go in the morning, match in the afternoon, return in the evening or the next day — discretion and safety included.
Support UBB, we take care of the transport
Whether you experience the Champions Cup 2026 final from the Fan Zone Chaban-Delmas, from your favourite bar or even from Bilbao live, Bordeaux Privilège remains at your disposal for your rugby travel. Book your trip to the stadium or chat with us via WhatsApp to plan ahead for your next Top 14 matches. Go UBB — and safe travels!
How to experience this historic moment with Bordeaux Privilège
This European title set Bordeaux abuzz. If you want to join the celebrations, the next UBB matches or simply travel in comfort worthy of a champion, here is how Bordeaux Privilège can support you:
- Chaban-Delmas stadium transfers: drop-off and return for all UBB home matches.
- Mérignac airport transfer: for supporters coming from all over France.
- Event evenings: transport for private events and celebrations in town.
- 7-seater vehicle: for groups and families celebrating together.