Ulster fell to a 59-26 defeat against Montpellier in the Challenge Cup final in Bilbao, extending their trophy drought to 20 years. Despite Nick Timoney scoring inside three minutes, Montpellier's backline and forwards tore them apart, with the French side posting nine tries to Ulster's three. Billy Vunipola captained the winning side as Montpellier controlled the match from the early exchanges.

Gabriel N'Gandebe, Donovan Taofifenua with two tries, Alex Becognee, Lenni Nouchi, Baptiste Erdocio, Wilfrid Hounkpatin, Arthur Vincent and Vunipola all found the line. Cormac Izuchukwu produced a try from over 40 metres out and Robert Baloucoune shrugged off three defenders for a consolation, but Ulster never recovered from a 14-point halftime deficit. Miotti's conversions kept Montpellier ahead throughout.

The loss means Ulster go another season without silverware, their longest wait since 2006. Finishing ninth in the URC also rules them out of Champions Cup rugby for the second consecutive year.