Premiership Rugby: Dedicated Away Ends Trialled at Leicester & Sale Games
A dedicated area within Leicester Tigers’ Mattioli Woods Welford Road stadium will be allocated to Northampton Saints supporters for the East Midlands derby on May 9, 2026, as part of a continued trial of ‘away ends’ in Gallagher Premiership Rugby.
The move, announced Wednesday, marks the largest showcase yet for the initiative, which aims to enhance the atmosphere at matches and provide a more compelling experience for fans both in the stadium and watching broadcasts. Leicester’s subsequent away match against Sale Sharks will also feature a designated area for travelling Tigers supporters.
The Premiership first trialled the concept last season with fixtures between Saracens and Gloucester and Leicester, and Harlequins. Although not implementing full segregation as seen in football, the scheme allows fans to sit together in a concentrated area, fostering a more vocal and visible travelling support.
“Last season’s trial gave us valuable insight into how away supporter zones can elevate the matchday experience and improve the on-screen product for broadcast audiences,” said Rob Calder, the Premiership’s chief growth officer. “We want to create bigger atmospheres, fuel the passion of rivalries and give fans an even more memorable experience when they arrive to Gallagher Premiership matches.”
The East Midlands derby is particularly significant as both teams are currently vying for play-off positions. As of March 25, 2026, Northampton Saints lead the Premiership table, with Leicester Tigers in third place, making the fixture crucial for final standings and seeding.
Mattioli Woods Welford Road has a total capacity of 25,849, following renovations completed in 2020. The stadium hosted a Premiership Rugby Cup match between Leicester and Northampton on November 21, 2025, with Leicester winning 34-22 in front of 17,140 attendees.
Visiting fans will still have the option to purchase seats throughout the stadium alongside home supporters, offering flexibility for those who prefer a more integrated matchday experience.