The Premiership will trial designated away sections for supporters in two upcoming matches in April to enhance stadium atmospheres. For Saracens’ fixture against Gloucester on April 19 and Leicester’s match against Harlequins on April 26, specific areas will be set aside for visiting fans to congregate.
Traditionally, rugby stadiums have unsegregated seating, allowing supporters of opposing teams to mix freely. Many fans appreciate this aspect of the sport, but there is a growing belief that concentrated groups of away fans could generate a livelier atmosphere.
Premiership Rugby had announced plans for this trial in October, with several clubs expressing interest in the initiative. However, the trial does not mean full segregation away supporters can still choose to sit in other sections of the stadium if they prefer. The intent is to offer an option that could encourage louder support and create a more engaging experience for both home and away fans.
The league has set a season-long attendance target of 82%, currently operating at an average of 81%, marking an improvement from previous years. One factor impacting this target is Leicester’s recent dip in attendance, despite historically being one of the best-supported clubs in England. League officials believe that designated away sections could help maintain strong attendance figures by improving the matchday experience.
A source involved in the initiative emphasized that this move is not about dividing supporters but about enhancing the energy within stadiums.
“This is not meant to be adversarial. It’s about giving people a choice. Away fans can and will still sit amongst the main crowd, but this allows them to gather in one place to make a collective noise. Players thrive on that kind of atmosphere, and it encourages home fans to respond in kind,” the source explained.
While some remain skeptical about the change, the idea has gained traction in recent years, particularly among Harlequins supporters. Their fans have already been informally adopting this approach, most notably during a high-scoring Premiership semi-final victory against Bristol at Ashton Gate.
Harlequins flanker Will Evans has been a vocal advocate for the change, arguing that a designated away section should be implemented across all stadiums.
“Rugby stadiums need a designated away fan area that stays the same year on year. We can’t continue to hold the game back any longer. It’s bordering on arrogance to assume rugby is the only sport where fans can sit together without issues,” Evans said.
He believes the move will improve the experience for both players and supporters. “Players want this. You’ll see a better product because of it. Fans can still sit in the home end and chat with locals if they want, but having a concentrated section for away support makes a big difference to the overall atmosphere.”
The Premiership resumes this weekend after an eight-week hiatus, and organizers are eager to leverage the increased attention generated by the Six Nations. England’s dominant win over Wales has fueled optimism that the domestic competition can maintain momentum. The upcoming fixtures form part of the league’s second derby weekend of the season, an opportunity to further boost interest. However, with England players requiring mandatory rest, some clubs may opt to rest their star players in the coming weeks.
This trial will be closely watched, as its success could shape the future of fan experiences in English rugby. If the initiative proves beneficial, more clubs may adopt dedicated away sections, potentially transforming the atmosphere at Premiership fixtures for years to come.
