When does the Gallagher Premiership start?

The Gallagher Premiership will return to screens in September 2026, with many supporters set to enjoy domestic rugby once again after the previous season concluded on June 21, 2026. The final took place at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham, where Northampton Saints secured the trophy for the third time by defeating Exeter Chiefs. Exeter, despite their loss, made history as the first third-place team to reach the final.

As teams prepare for the upcoming season, Northampton Saints will aim to defend their title, but they will face strong competition from clubs like Saracens, Bath, and Sale, who are all eyeing the championship trophy. Anticipation builds as the start of the campaign nears, with the Premier Rugby key information outlining the important dates and fixtures.

Gallagher Premiership key information
- Dates: Fri 25 September 2026 – Sat 19 June 2027
- Current holder: Northampton Saints
- Teams: Bath, Bristol Bears, Exeter Chiefs, Gloucester, Harlequins, Leicester Tigers, Newcastle Red Bulls, Northampton Saints, Sale Sharks, Saracens

The season will kick off simultaneously in two locations. On September 25, 2026, both Harlequins and Northampton Saints will host their opening matches at 7:45 PM BST. Harlequins will play against Bath at the Stoop in London, while the defending champions Northampton Saints will face Newcastle Red Bulls at Franklins Gardens in Northampton. Both matches will be broadcast for UK audiences on TNT Sports and HBO Max.

The first weekend’s fixtures include:
Friday, September 25, 2026
- Harlequins vs Bath
The Stoop, London
Kick-off: 7:45 PM
- Northampton Saints vs Newcastle Red Bulls
Franklins Gardens, Northampton
Kick-off: 7:45 PM

Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Exeter Chiefs vs Gloucester
Sandy Park
Kick-off: 3:05 PM
- Sale Sharks vs Bristol Bears
Corpacq Stadium, Salford
Kick-off: 5:30 PM

Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Leicester Tigers vs Saracens
Welford Road, Leicester
Kick-off: 3:00 PM, live on ITV1

As the Gallagher Premiership season approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting lineup of matches.