It has been confirmed that the Celtic Challenge final for 2025/26 will take place on March 28 at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh.
This landmark fixture marks the first-ever final in the competition’s history, bringing to an end the six-team event featuring Scottish, Irish and Welsh teams after 10 regular season rounds, semi-finals and then this big game which will be at 3pm.
“We are incredibly pleased to be staging the inaugural Celtic Challenge Final at the Hive,” Josh Payne, speaking on behalf of the Celtic Challenge organisers, said.
“This moment reflects the growth, passion and competitive drive of the teams and players involved. It’s also a testament to the commitment of our three nations to elevate women’s rugby and we can’t wait to see fans from across the Celtic nations unite in Edinburgh for what promises to be a memorable occasion.”
Douglas Struth, managing director of Edinburgh Rugby, said: “It is a massive moment for this club and the development of the league. Hive Stadium is consistently recognised as a great venue to watch rugby – independently ranked alongside the best-rated matchdays in the men’s URC – so it is fantastic that we can bring this showpiece final to the Scottish capital.
“We would love to see our own Edinburgh Rugby women’s team make a push through to the play-offs to play a home final, but, whatever happens, it will be a brilliant moment for the sport to host the final here at Hive Stadium.”
And Gemma Fay, managing Director of women’s rugby at Scottish Rugby, added: “This is a brilliant step forward for the league.
“Hive Stadium has become synonymous with women’s rugby in Scotland. We have seen some magical moments here from Edinburgh Rugby’s rise, to the electrifying atmosphere of last season’s Women’s Six Nations.
“Now, it’s the turn of the Celtic Challenge to take the spotlight. This venue provides the perfect stage for the next generation of stars to shine and I’d encourage every club, player, and fan across the country to join us for what will be a defining showcase for the women’s game.”
Halfway through the regular season run of 10 games, two-time defending champions Wolfhounds from Ireland lead the way in the Celtic Challenge with 25 points from 25, Gwalia from Wales are second on 22, Clovers from Ireland are third on 19, Glasgow are fourth on 9, Edinburgh are fifth on 5 and Brython from Wales are bottom on one.
The final will be broadcast live across multiple platforms with coverage available on BBC, TG4 and the official Celtic Challenge YouTube channel.
- Tickets for the Celtic Challenge final are on sale here now.
Hive Stadium is pictured – thanks to Edinburgh Rugby