Rugby: Start of new RFU season pushed back

Decision expected to impact three Manx clubs

England Rugby has announced a delay to the start of the 2026/27 RFU season.

Having previously been due to begin on Saturday, 5 September, the campaign is now scheduled to get underway on the week commencing Monday, 21 September.

In a statement, the organisation says it's taken the decision due to the recent, prolonged dry weather in the UK which has 'left many grounds across the country hard and unsuitable for safe full-contact activity.'

Furthermore, England Rugby adds 'with no meaningful or lengthy spells of rain currently forecast, these ground conditions are not expected to improve significantly in the short term.'

You can view the England Rugby statement in full HERE.

The move to postpone the start of the season will affect three Manx clubs - Douglas who will compete once again in Regional 2 North West; Vagabonds who're about to start another season in Counties 3 ADM Lancashire/Cheshire and Vagabonds Ladies taking part in Women's NC2 North (South).

Updated fixture lists for all three Island sides will be released in due course.

As a result of the decision, any matches which were originally due to be held before 21 September will be rearranged by Regional Organising Committees.

It's currently expected the planned break in fixtures in November will remain in place.

Clubs will be able to train as normal in the meantime but are asked to ensure that pitch safety is of the required level.