Bristol Bears will return to the Principality Stadium for their third 'Big Day Out' next April, with Premiership rivals Gloucester confirmed as their opponents in the Welsh capital. The Gallagher Premiership club had already announced they would play in Cardiff for the third successive year, having faced Bath in 2025 and Harlequins earlier this year, but their opponent was not known until the release of the 2026-27 fixtures on Tuesday morning.
Wales Captains Could Feature on Home Soil
That means Wales captains Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan could play on home soil, with both heading to Kingsholm this summer. There is already plenty of Welsh interest, with Louis Rees-Zammit the high-profile name on Bristol's books.
Mixed Track Record in Cardiff
Pat Lam's side have a mixed track record in the Welsh capital. In 2025, they defeated Bath 36-14 in front of 51,000 supporters. However, the following year saw their play-off hopes dented with an 18-14 defeat to Harlequins.
Other Premiership Fixtures Announced
Elsewhere in the Premiership, champions Northampton will begin the defence of their title against Newcastle on September 25, a Friday night clash at Franklin's Gardens. Derby rivalries take centre stage in round four from October 16-18. Festive fixtures over Christmas and New Year will take place on a three-week run across rounds seven to nine. Big Game 18 moves to December 28 for the first time as Harlequins welcome Northampton to Allianz Stadium. Gloucester are set to take the Slater Cup back to Birmingham for a second successive season, hosting Leicester again at Villa Park subject to confirmation. The Premiership final will be played at Allianz Stadium on June 19.
CEO on Season Momentum
“There’s huge momentum behind the Gallagher PREM heading into the new season, following a third consecutive sold-out Final, significant international investment in our clubs, record broadcast audiences and soaring interest from younger fans,” said Premiership CEO Simon Massie-Taylor. “Today’s fixture release is the moment supporters can start looking towards the season ahead – circling local derbies in calendars, planning away days and counting down to the return of the Gallagher PREM. From a fascinating opening night clash on TNT Sports between our champions and the ambitious Newcastle Red Bulls, through Derby Weekend, Festive Fixtures and our big stadium events, we've built a calendar that gives fans more occasions than ever to get behind their clubs. And following a landmark agreement to change our operating model earlier this year, we are well on the way with our plans to expand the league by the 2029/30 season.”
