After a Villa Park trial, the Slater Cup is coming back to Kingsholm Stadium – with Gloucester Rugby confirming the high-profile fixture will return to its traditional home in Gloucester in March 2027.
The Cherry and Whites took the 2025/26 Slater Cup against Leicester Tigers to Birmingham's Villa Park as the club's first-ever 'Big Game' fixture, testing the potential of taking Gloucester Rugby beyond Kingsholm and introducing the club to new audiences.
Following a review of the event – including 'extensive feedback' from supporters and stakeholders – Gloucester Rugby has decided to bring the fixture back home for the 2026/27 Gallagher PREM season.
The decision has also been influenced by significant stadium developments planned at Villa Park over the coming months.
While the Villa Park fixture provided an opportunity to reach new fans and raised significant funds for the 4ED Foundation, Gloucester Rugby says supporter feedback has been an important part of deciding what happens next.
Gloucester Rugby chief executive officer Alex Brown said: '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.'
Despite bringing the Slater Cup back to Gloucester, the club appears keen to build on what it learned from its first Big Game – with similar fixtures potentially returning in future.
Brown continued: '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.'
He also thanked Aston Villa for its support and partnership, adding: 'We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Kingsholm for the Slater Cup in March 2027.'
The annual Slater Cup between Gloucester Rugby and Leicester Tigers honours former player Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2022, with the fixture helping to raise funds and awareness for the 4ED Foundation.
Gloucester Rugby brings Slater Cup back to Kingsholm after Villa Park debut
The Slater Cup is coming home to Kingsholm in March 2027, with Gloucester Rugby CEO confirming the decision following a review of its first Big Game at Villa Park and extensive feedback from supporters.
