EPCR Confirms Elite Referee Panel for High Stakes Champions Cup and Challenge Cup Round of 16

The EPCR confirms referees for the Stormers and Bulls knockout matches, featuring Christophe Ridley, Pierre Brousset, and Hollie Davidson.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 26, 2026, 5:15 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Strategic Appointments for the European Knockout Stages

The European Professional Club Rugby body has finalized its roster of match officials for the highly anticipated Round of 16 in both the Investec Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup. Led by Tony Spreadbury, the selection committee has mobilized a diverse 96-strong panel consisting of referees, assistants, and Television Match Officials from eight different unions. These appointments come as the tournament transitions into its most volatile phase, where elite officiating is essential to manage the increased physical intensity and tactical complexity of knockout rugby.

South African Contingent Faces Varied Officiating Styles

The South African franchises competing in the Northern Hemisphere face a series of critical appointments that could influence their progression. The Stormers’ travel to RC Toulon will be overseen by England’s Christophe Ridley, an official known for his meticulous attention to detail at the breakdown. Meanwhile, the Bulls’ encounter with Glasgow Warriors marks a first-ever Champions Cup meeting between these United Rugby Championship rivals, with French referee Pierre Brousset tasked with managing the technical battle between the two forward packs.

Trailblazing Officials and International Heavyweights

Highlighting the opening night of action, Hollie Davidson will continue her rise through the professional ranks by taking charge of the Northampton Saints versus Castres Olympique fixture. Davidson arrives at cinch Stadium fresh from a historic debut in the Men’s Six Nations, signaling the EPCR’s commitment to high-performance consistency. In another standout appointment, Nika Amashukeli, who recently handled the high-pressure Six Nations finale between France and England, will officiate the all-English heavyweight duel between Bath Rugby and Saracens.