ERC Chairman Jean-Pierre Lux said: “The ERC Board of Directors decided it would continue with the policy of announcing both the venue and the date of the Heineken Cup final before the start of the campaign.
“This gives all 24 teams in the tournament a specific goal and offers the fans a definitive venue and date as they follow their team’s progress through the tournament.”
ERC Chief Executive Derek McGrath said: “The Heineken Cup final is now established as a major European sporting event and it deserves and requires the investment of six months for us to build an event – it is a lot more than just a game – and reach the full potential of that event.
“Announcing the venue and date well in advance of the final is in the best interests of the Heineken Cup as it adds focus, value and incentive to the tournament and all its stake holders and partners.”
