The 2025-26 Prem Rugby season is set to make history with its first-ever Thursday night kickoff. On Thursday, 25 September, Sale Sharks will face Gloucester at the Salford Stadium, starting at 19:45 BST. This match will open the first of 18 rounds, marking a significant shift in the traditional scheduling of the league.

Defending Champions and Runners-Up in Action

Bath, the defending champions, will begin their campaign on Friday, 26 September, with an away game against Harlequins. Meanwhile, the runners-up, Leicester Tigers, will play Bristol Bears on Sunday, 28 September. These fixtures promise to set an exciting tone for the season.

Rebranding and Strategic Changes

The top flight of English domestic rugby union has been rebranded as the 'Prem' for the upcoming season. This change aims to give the league a more informal and less corporate feel, attracting a younger audience. The decision to start the season with a midweek night fixture follows the announcement that the men's Six Nations will also open with a Thursday night game in February 2026.

Marquee Weekend Highlights

The season will also feature a Marquee Weekend in March, with three fixtures played at Premier League or international football stadiums:

• Gloucester vs Leicester Tigers at Villa Park on Saturday, 28 March.
• Bristol Bears vs Harlequins at Principality Stadium.
• Saracens vs Northampton Saints at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Premiership Opening Weekend Fixtures

• Thursday, 25 September: Sale v Gloucester (19:45 BST)
• Friday, 26 September: Harlequins v Bath (19:45 BST), Newcastle v Saracens (19:45 BST)
• Sunday, 28 September: Northampton v Exeter (13:00 BST), Bristol v Leicester (15:30 BST)

Looking Ahead

The season will conclude on the weekend of 6 June 2026, with the Prem final title decider at Twickenham on Saturday, 21 June 2026. This season promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with new traditions and high-stakes matches.