English rugby’s Champ era gets under way dogged by same old ups and downs

The rebranded second tier of English rugby, now called 'the Champ', is set to kick off this weekend, promising a fresh start for the league. However, lingering uncertainties regarding promotion and relegation cast a shadow over the excitement. This transformation is significant as it aims to revitalize interest in club rugby, but the unresolved issues may affect teams' strategies and fan engagement. As the season begins, all eyes will be on how these changes unfold and impact the future of the sport.