Lock Riley Norton says the Stormers’ Investec Champions Cup pool match against Bordeaux Bègles is a chance to test themselves against the best.
The Cape club kicks off its campaign against the Bristol Bears at home on 17 October before a daunting trip to face back-to-back champions Bordeaux on 13 December.
“Bordeaux away is going to be special,” Norton said at the Champions Cup season launch in Lyon. “They’re an unbelievable team, and it’s a chance to test ourselves against the best.
“It’s a hostile environment, and one the whole team is really looking forward to. It’s why we play rugby – for games like that.”
The Stormers will also travel to Gloucester and host Racing 92 during the pool stage.
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Bordeaux prop Ben Tameifuna, who helped the French giants retain their title last season, believes the Champions Cup provides a standard comparable to international rugby.
“It’s a huge competition. I’ve played in Super Rugby, the Top 14 and the Champions Cup, and I think it’s one of the best competitions I’ve played in,” the Tongan international said.
“It’s pretty much a Test match but in club colours. What better way to test yourself than playing against the best in the world.
“When it’s Champions Cup week, the boys tune in better. There’s a different kind of buzz in and around the city – it goes to show how much this competition means to the people of Bordeaux.”
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Bristol loose forward Viliame Mata, who could come up against Norton in the opening round, expects the competition to have a Test-match feel from the outset.
“The build-up is going to be great – we’re straight into it,” he said. “The best thing is travelling to different countries. Playing at home is great, but away, the fans are on your ears throughout the game, and that’s intense.”
Saracens loose forward Andy Onyeama-Christie also highlighted what sets the Champions Cup apart.
“The history of the competition and the opportunity to play against teams and reignite past rivalries make it special,” he said.
“With the inclusion of South African teams as well, there’s another element. I don’t think there’s really any competition like it.”
Flight trouble may have kept some away, but Big Ben certainly wasn’t forgotten!
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— Investec Champions Cup (@ChampionsCup) September 17, 2026
Photo: Quentin Montiel-Font
The post Norton: Bordeaux away will be special appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Lock Riley Norton says the Stormers’ Investec Champions Cup pool match against Bordeaux Bègles is a chance to test themselves against the best.
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