PREM Rugby set to reintroduce away ends, fans left divided

Building on the success of last season’s trial, travelling fans once again have the option to secure tickets in dedicated away sections for the East Midlands Derby in Round 15 on Saturday, May 9.

The away end remains optional, meaning visiting supporters can still buy tickets anywhere in the ground, ensuring the traditional mix of home and away fans is retained.

With the two sides currently sitting first and third in the table, the grudge match will be broadcast live on both TNT Sports and ITV, setting the stage for a pivotal clash in the play-off race.

Leicester Tigers will then reverse roles the following weekend, becoming the travelling support for a heavyweight Round 16 encounter against Sale Sharks at the CorpAcq Stadium on Sunday, May 17 (3pm KO, TNT Sports).

After two fiercely contested play-off meetings in the past two seasons, a passionate travelling contingent could once again prove decisive as the away side looks to maintain momentum in their play-off push.

The away zones were introduced last season following clear feedback from fans and players alike. The initiative is designed to enhance the atmosphere, bring travelling supporters together and provide more flexible and engaging ticketing options, while still allowing fans the freedom to sit throughout the stadium.

Rob Calder, Chief Growth Officer at PREM Rugby, said:

“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.

“We want to create bigger atmospheres, fuel the passion of rivalries and give fans an even more memorable experience when they come to Gallagher PREM matches.

“The enthusiasm from all clubs involved is fantastic and we’re excited to see the energy that their supporters bring to these key fixtures as the play-off race heats up.”

Leicester Tigers hosted Harlequins last season, with Tigers fans rating it as the best atmosphere of the season at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.

Saracens supporters surveyed also rated their away zone fixture highly across every measure of fan experience when they welcomed the travelling Gloucester Rugby contingent to North London.

By giving visiting fans the option to gather together, while still allowing them to sit throughout the stadium, away zones aim to increase intensity and create a more vibrant spectacle for supporters inside the ground and for viewers watching live on TNT Sports and ITV.

However, the move has faced some criticism, with many arguing it risks undermining one of rugby’s defining traditions of fans sitting together and sharing the experience, and that a shift towards designated away ends brings the sport closer to a football-style atmosphere.