Prem Rugby Season Starts 25 September
Promotion and relegation have been officially removed from the division ahead of the new campaign.
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The 2026-27 Prem rugby season is set to commence on Friday, 25 September. Reigning champions Northampton will play host to Newcastle Red Bulls on the opening day of the campaign. This season marks a significant shift as promotion and relegation have been officially removed from the division.
Opening Weekend Fixtures and Season Structure
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The opening weekend's schedule includes several high-profile matches. On Friday, 25 September, alongside Northampton versus Newcastle, Harlequins will face Bath. Saturday, 26 September, sees Exeter hosting Gloucester and Sale playing Bristol. The opening round concludes on Sunday, 27 September, with Leicester taking on Saracens.
The season will incorporate several breaks to accommodate international fixtures. Following five rounds in six weeks through September and October, there will be a four-week pause in November for the Nations Championship autumn internationals. Further breaks are scheduled in February and March for the Six Nations tournament.
Formalisation of League Changes
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The decision to scrap promotion and relegation has been formalised as part of a series of changes voted through in February. This move aligns the league with a franchise-style model and follows a period where no clubs have been relegated or promoted since 2020 and 2021. Simon Massie-Taylor, chief executive officer of Prem Rugby, noted the "huge momentum" behind the league, citing a sold-out final, international investment, record broadcast audiences, and growing interest from younger fans. He also indicated plans to expand the league by the 2029/30 season.
Showcase Matches and Season Finale
Several matches are scheduled to be played at major stadiums throughout the season. Harlequins will host Northampton at the Allianz Stadium on 28 December and Newcastle at the same venue in May. Gloucester is expected to play Leicester at Villa Park, though the venue is still to be confirmed. The 2026-27 Prem final is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 19 June 2027, at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.
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