Premiership Rugby confirms 2025/26 fixtures with historic opener

The newly revamped Prem Rugby has officially released the fixture list for the 2025/26 season, marking a fresh chapter in the league’s history.

For the first time ever, the campaign will kick off on a Thursday night, with Sale Sharks set to host Gloucester at the Salford Community Stadium on September 25.

In a break from tradition, there will be no Saturday matches in the opening round to avoid a scheduling clash with the Women’s Rugby World Cup final at Twickenham Stadium. Instead, the first weekend of action will be spread across Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.

Reigning champions Bath will begin their title defence across the road from Twickenham at The Stoop, where they face Harlequins in a high-stakes Friday night clash. Elsewhere, Newcastle Falcons will take on Saracens under the lights at Kingston Park.

Sunday will see two key encounters: 2024/25 runners-up Leicester Tigers travel to face Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate, while Northampton Saints will host Exeter Chiefs at Franklin’s Gardens.

This season’s fixture list also promises a strong lineup of marquee events. Round three has been designated as derby weekend, while round 12 will feature a blockbuster triple header of premium matchups.

One of the season’s most anticipated fixtures will take place on March 28, when Villa Park hosts The Slater Cup for the first time, with Gloucester facing Leicester Tigers at the Premier League stadium.

Bristol Bears’ Big Day Out returns to Cardiff’s Principality Stadium in 2026 for a clash against Harlequins, while The Showdown 6 will see Saracens and Northampton Saints battle it out at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

PREM Rugby Chief Executive Simon Massie-Taylor expressed enthusiasm for the changes and growth of the league.

“Kicking off on a Thursday night adds a fresh twist. We’re seeing the league evolve with marquee fixtures and growing fan engagement,” he said.

Massie-Taylor also highlighted last season’s 28% rise in viewership and the increasing competitiveness of the league, which saw Bath become the sixth different champion in as many years.

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