Glasgow Warriors have secured a significant boost ahead of the 1872 Cup opener at Hampden Park, with Zander Fagerson, one of world rugby’s top props, signing a new multi-year contract with the club.
The 28-year-old, who reached a milestone of 150 appearances in a Glasgow jersey during the opening game of the 2024/25 season against Ulster, has reaffirmed his commitment to Franco Smith’s squad.
Fagerson follows fellow Scotland internationals Sione Tuipulotu, Kyle Steyn, and Stafford McDowall in pledging his future to the club as they prepare for their biggest-ever night at Hampden Park.
Since making his debut in October 2014 against Benetton in Treviso, Fagerson has cemented his status as one of the premier front-row players in global rugby.
A cornerstone of the team that reached the 2019 Guinness PRO14 Final, Fagerson played every minute of Glasgow’s successful BKT United Rugby Championship campaign in 2023/24, culminating in a historic victory in Pretoria.
On the international stage, Fagerson made his Scotland debut during the 2016 Guinness Six Nations at just 20 years old, becoming the fourth-youngest prop to wear the dark blue jersey.
With 70 caps to date, he has represented Scotland in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups and, alongside his brother Matt, became the 48th set of siblings to play for the national team. His stellar performances also earned him a spot on the 2021 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa.
Speaking at Hampden Park ahead of this weekend’s 1872 Cup clash, Fagerson expressed his enthusiasm for continuing his career with Glasgow.
“Weighing up all the options, it was clear very quickly that Glasgow was definitely the standout choice for both myself and my family. I love being part of this group and coming to work with my mates every day.”
He also highlighted the family-oriented environment of the club, emphasizing the importance of ensuring his wife and children felt part of the Warriors’ community: “They feel just as much a part of this club as I do, so to be sticking around and being part of that environment is really exciting.”
Reflecting on last season’s success, Fagerson is motivated to help the team achieve even more: “Once you get that winning feeling, you just want to experience more of it. That in turn has really driven how we train this year – we want to go out and win that trophy once more.”