# URC Teams Outperform Prem in Europe

> Former Ireland fly-half Ian Madigan says URC teams are better prepared for European rugby than Premiership sides.
- Title: URC Teams Outperform Prem in Europe · The Rugby Paper
- Summary: Former Ireland fly-half Ian Madigan says URC teams are better prepared for European rugby than Premiership sides.
- Keywords: united rugby championship, premiership rugby, european rugby, ian madigan, northampton saints, gloucester, bordeaux, cardiff, The Rugby Paper
- Source: The Rugby Paper — https://therugbypaper.co.uk/latest-news/495776/urc-teams-better-prepared-says-madigan
- Author: The Rugby Paper Team
- Published: 2026-10-25T03:59:54+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: united rugby championship, premiership rugby, european rugby, ian madigan, northampton saints, gloucester, bordeaux, cardiff, sports
## URC Teams Outperform Prem in Europe
Former Ireland fly-half Ian Madigan says URC teams are better prepared for European rugby than Premiership sides.
## Premiership Teams Struggle
Northampton Saints were the sole Prem victor, defeating Cardiff 28-12, while six other Prem teams lost.
## URC Teams Win Six Games
Six URC teams won their first matches, compared to the Premiership's single win.
## Style of Play Difference
Madigan says Premiership teams face similar opponents weekly, while URC teams face varied opposition and conditions.
## European Preparation Advantage
URC teams are better prepared for European rugby due to diverse opponents and conditions.
## Key takeaway

Ian Madigan states United Rugby Championship teams have better preparation for European competition due to varied opponents and conditions.