Gloucester Rugby have announced that the 2026/27 Slater Cup fixture against Leicester Tigers will be played at their home ground, Kingsholm, rather than at Villa Park.
Last season, the Cherry & Whites took this fixture to Birmingham’s Villa Park as part of their inaugural ‘Big Game’, where Leicester Tigers secured a 36-17 victory in front of over 24,000 spectators, allowing the Tigers to retain the trophy.
The Slater Cup, contested each season between Gloucester and Leicester during their home and away Gallagher Premiership fixtures, is named in honour of former Gloucester and Leicester lock Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in July 2022.
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Gloucester’s decision to stage the fixture at Villa Park previously was motivated by three key factors: increasing ticket availability, expanding their reach into northern regions to attract new supporters, and growing commercial opportunities. However, this move faced some opposition from fans, who were disappointed to lose one of their nine league games typically held at Kingsholm.
When the fixtures were initially announced two weeks ago, the game scheduled for the weekend of 27 March was slated to take place at Villa Park. Following extensive review and significant supporter feedback, coupled with upcoming stadium developments at Aston Villa’s ground, Gloucester Rugby have now confirmed the match will be held at Kingsholm.
In an official statement, Gloucester Rugby said: “The 2025/26 Slater Cup at Villa Park marked an important milestone as Gloucester Rugby’s first Big Game fixture. Hosting the event at a new venue provided valuable insight and demonstrated the potential of taking Gloucester Rugby beyond Kingsholm, helping us introduce new fans to the Cherry & White experience, while also raising significant funds for the 4ED Foundation.”
“Following a thorough review of the event, including extensive feedback from supporters and stakeholders, the Club has decided that the Slater Cup will return to Kingsholm for the 2026/27 Gallagher Premiership season. This decision has also been influenced by significant stadium developments planned at Villa Park over the coming months.”
Alex Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Gloucester Rugby, added: “I want to start by thanking our supporters for the feedback they have shared since the fixture. Listening to and understanding the views of our fanbase is an important part of how we make decisions as a Club.”
“The experience at Villa Park provided valuable learning and reinforced the opportunities that Big Game fixtures can create in terms of growing our reach, attracting new audiences, and strengthening Gloucester Rugby’s position for the future.”
“As we look ahead, our focus is on delivering the best possible matchday experience for our supporters at Kingsholm, while continuing to explore opportunities that support the long-term growth of the Club, which may well include future ‘Big Games’.”
“Returning the Slater Cup to Kingsholm next season reflects our immediate focus, while giving us time to consider future opportunities in the wider context of the game and the Club’s priorities. We are grateful to Aston Villa for their support and partnership, and to our supporters for their continued passion and engagement. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Kingsholm for the Slater Cup in March 2027.”