Ineligible.

German club Heidelberger RK, who were losing Continental Shield finalists in Bilbao, have been deemed ineligible to compete in next season’s Challenge Cup following a decision by EPCR.

On the basis that Dr Hans-Peter Wild, who is the majority shareholder of Stade Français Paris and the primary financial backer of Heidelberger RK, would be in a position to influence or to control the management or performance of two clubs in the same competition, EPCR decided that the German club could not participate.

Heidelberger RK are one of just two professional clubs in Germany and have Saracens and England lock Mouritz Botha as their forwards coach. Their qualification was seen as a huge step forward for rugby in Germany, with this news set to devastate all involved.

A replacement club will be announced shortly.