Cheltenham Town is set to begin its first pre-season under manager Steve Cotterill in 25 years with a match against Slimbridge AFC, the reigning champions of the Hellenic League Premier Division. The friendly will take place on Tuesday, July 14, at 7pm, marking the start of the Robins’ preparations for the upcoming season.
Slimbridge, managed jointly by Tom Deakin and Michael Palmer, are due to compete in the Southern League Division One South starting in the 2026/27 season. Following this opener, Cheltenham will travel to face Southern League Premier Division South side Evesham United on Saturday, July 18, with kickoff at 3pm. Evesham United, led by Mike Ford, successfully secured their place at step three of non-league football after a goalless draw against Taunton Town on the final day of last season—their first season at this level since 2012.
Cotterill has opted to limit the number of pre-season friendlies this summer to a maximum of four games. In addition to these two confirmed fixtures, the club is working to arrange a home match against a League One opponent and will host an open training session at Whaddon Road.
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Before the friendlies, Cheltenham will embark on a week-long training camp in Spain from July 4 to July 11, focusing on fitness and team cohesion ahead of the 2024/25 League Two campaign. The league season is set to start on the weekend of August 15, with fixtures announced on Thursday, June 25 at noon. Additionally, the first round of the Carabao Cup is scheduled for the weekend of August 7, providing another competitive opportunity for the Robins to sharpen their squad.