The wait is nearly over and fixtures for the 2017-18 European Rugby Champions Cup and Challenge Cup will be released on Tuesday 22 August. Here we answer the key questions about the competitions.

Q: What time will the fixtures be released?
A: 1500 BST/1600 CET – both competitions will appear on this website and be communicated through official social media channels.

Q: Do we see the full season's line-up?
A: The fixtures will be announced for all six rounds of the pool stage with details of exact dates, venues and kick-off times for the first four rounds confirmed on Tuesday, as well as where you can find them on television. Rounds 5 and 6 will then follow in December.

Q: When does the European season start?
A: The European Rugby Challenge Cup kicks off on Thursday 12 October with Round 1 of the Champions Cup underway the following evening.

Q: Are there any changes from last season?
A: No, it's the same format in both competitions – five Pools of four clubs each. The pools were drawn back in June.

Q: Can I watch games on TV?
A: Yes, thanks to our broadcast partners – BT Sport, Sky Sports, beIN Sports and France Télévisions – there will be live games throughout each match weekend.