Italian rugby referees receive major EPCR and URC appointments

Italian rugby officials have received significant appointments for upcoming European and domestic competitions. In the EPCR designations for the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup, Italy ranks third in the number of referees assigned, tied with Wales and trailing only France and England.

Gianluca Gnecchi is set to officiate the opening match of the 2026/27 Investec Champions Cup between Gloucester and Bordeaux Bègles, supported by an all-Italian officiating crew. Andrea Piardi will referee the Bath versus Montpellier match, while Federico Vedovelli is scheduled for the Lyon versus Sharks fixture in the Challenge Cup.

In the United Rugby Championship (URC), Italian referees will also feature prominently during the second round of the 2026/27 season. Filippo Russo will officiate the Lions versus Ospreys match in Johannesburg, and Federico Vedovelli is assigned to the Bulls versus Munster fixture. Additionally, Italian assistants will support the Benetton versus Connacht match.