Newcastle edges closer to host European finals

Newcastle's desire to host the European Cup finals in 2018 has moved closer after it was confirmed that they are on the EPCR shortlist of candidate cities.
The city last month revealed its intention to host the 2018 European Rugby Champions Cup final, European Rugby Challenge Cup final and Challenge Cup Qualifying Competition final.
If successful in their bid, the Champions Cup final would be held at Newcastle United's St James' Park Stadium.
Newcastle's application this week passed through to the candidate stage, although tournament organisers European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) are not making public the number or identity of rival bids.
The next stage of the selection process sees EPCR making site visits to all candidate cities in a selection process through to March 2017, before a final decision is made in April 2017.