Bordeaux Bègles crush Leinster 41-19 to claim historic Champions Cup title
Bordeaux Bègles claimed their first Champions Cup title with a commanding 41-19 win over Leinster. The French side dominated from the start, building a 35-7 lead by halftime. Their victory extended France’s streak to six consecutive European Cup wins by French clubs. Bordeaux opened strongly, with Louis Bielle-Biarrey crossing twice in the first half. His performance earned him the player of the tournament award. Meanwhile, Leinster struggled, losing Joe McCarthy to the sin-bin early on.
Yoram Moefana added to Leinster’s troubles with a try on an interception just before the break. Bordeaux’s captain, Maxime Lucu, also got on the scoresheet and converted all seven of his kicks. His flawless goalkicking and a try secured him the player of the final, despite a yellow card. Leinster managed a consolation try through McCarthy while Bordeaux’s captain was off the field. But the damage was done—Bordeaux’s win completed a French clean sweep of Europe’s major men’s titles this season. The defeat marked Leinster’s fifth final loss since their last Champions Cup triumph in 2018.
Bordeaux’s 41-19 victory cemented their place as European champions. The result also highlighted France’s continued dominance in continental rugby. Leinster, meanwhile, remain without a title since 2018 after another final setback.
