Gallagher PREM begins landmark 30th season

The Gallagher PREM begins its landmark 30th season on Friday night, with two opening fixtures launching a campaign that will celebrate three decades of the competition under the Premiership banner.

The milestone season comes with strong early interest from supporters, with tickets for the 2027 Gallagher PREM Final at Allianz Stadium already selling before the opening round has been played.

Saints begin title defence at home

Reigning champions Northampton Saints open their title defence against Newcastle Red Bulls at DPD Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Friday, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm.

At the same time, Harlequins host Bath Rugby at The Stoop as all 10 clubs begin their pursuit of the 2026/27 title.

Saturday sees Exeter Chiefs welcome Gloucester to Sandy Park at 3.05pm before Sale Sharks face Bristol Bears at 5.30pm.

Leicester Tigers and Saracens complete the opening round at Mattioli Woods Welford Road on Sunday at 3pm.

PREM marks 30 seasons with retro campaign

The league has launched its season-long PREM30 celebrations with the “Fabric of 30” campaign, featuring current players from all 10 clubs wearing memorable shirts from previous eras.

The campaign connects the modern competition with its history since the Premiership era began in 1997/98, with stars including Finn Russell, Maro Itoje, Fin Smith, George Ford and Louis Rees-Zammit photographed in retro club jerseys.

PREM Rugby chief executive Simon Massie-Taylor said the anniversary offered an opportunity to celebrate the competition’s history while looking towards its next chapter.

“Thirty seasons is a significant milestone and the Gallagher PREM has continued to evolve with the game, our clubs, our players and our fans.

“We’ve already kick-started the celebrations with our Fabric of 30 campaign featuring heavily in the media and all over social media this week.

“Seeing today’s stars wear the history of their clubs with pride in such iconic retro shirts from across the generations really resonated with the players and PREM fans.

“This season is about celebrating everything that has come before, but also very much looking forward to what comes next during this new exciting chapter for the league."