Northampton Saints: Building Momentum in the 2025-26 Season

Introduction: A Storied Club in Competitive Action

Northampton Saints, one of English rugby’s most prestigious clubs, are navigating a challenging but promising 2025-26 season. Competing in both the Gallagher Premiership and Investec Champions Cup, Saints finished 8th in the 2024-25 Premiership Rugby season, which entitled them to compete in the 2025-26 European Rugby Champions Cup. Under the leadership of Director of Rugby Phil Dowson, the team is working to establish consistency and build on their strong European pedigree.

Recent Performance and Key Results

The Saints have shown flashes of brilliance in December 2025. Most notably, Northampton Saints defeated Vodacom Bulls 50-5 on Sunday December 14, 2025 at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in Champions Cup action. This commanding victory demonstrated the attacking prowess that has long been a hallmark of Saints rugby. Earlier in December, Northampton Saints won 35-27 against Section Paloise in the European Rugby Champions Cup, further cementing their competitive position in Pool 4.

However, the season has presented challenges. The club has experienced mixed results in domestic competition, with recent losses highlighting the need for greater consistency across all competitions as they prepare for crucial festive fixtures.

Squad Strengthening and Financial Stability

A total of 15 new faces have joined the senior squad, including the likes of JJ van der Mescht, Danilo Fischetti, Callum Chick, Anthony Belleau, Cleopas Kundiona, Amena Caqusau and James Martin. This significant recruitment drive reflects the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level.

Off the field, Saints have made impressive financial strides. Underlying turnover rose to £23.5m – an increase of £1.6m (+7%) year-on-year, driven by strong commercial performance and on-pitch success. Furthermore, the Club generated operating cash for the first time since 2017, demonstrating improved financial sustainability.

Looking Ahead: European Ambitions and Domestic Goals

The road ahead presents both opportunity and challenge for Northampton Saints. Northampton Saints will kick-off the brand-new Gallagher PREM season at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, with Exeter Chiefs coming to town to get the 2025/26 campaign underway. In European competition, Northampton Saints have been drawn into Pool 4 of the 2025/26 Investec Champions Cup, and will lock horns with Union Bordeaux Bègles, Scarlets, Vodacom Bulls and Section Paloise during the competition’s opening rounds.

For supporters, the Saints’ combination of exciting rugby, strong youth development, and improved financial health offers genuine reasons for optimism. As the season progresses, the club’s ability to convert potential into consistent results will determine whether they can challenge for silverware and reclaim their position among English rugby’s elite.