Leicester Tigers: A Legacy of Excellence

The Birth of a Giant (1880–1892)

The club was formed on August 3, 1880, at the George Hotel, following the amalgamation of three smaller local sides: Leicester Alert, Leicester Amateur, and Leicester Societies. Initially nicknamed the "Death or Glory Boys" due to their black kit, the team played its first match against Moseley that October.

The famous "Tigers" moniker first appeared in the Leicester Daily Post in 1885, likely inspired by the club’s chocolate and yellow striped jerseys or the connection to the Royal Leicestershire Regiment, who were also known as the Tigers. By 1891, the club adopted the iconic scarlet, green, and white hoops that remain the hallmark of the club today.

Welford Road: A Fortress Since 1892

In September 1892, the club moved to its permanent home on Welford Road. Opening with a 17-0 victory over a Leicestershire XV, the ground quickly became a cathedral of the sport. Today, it stands as the largest purpose-built club rugby stadium in the UK, boasting a capacity of over 25,800.

Dominance and the Golden Era

Leicester’s history is defined by a relentless pursuit of silverware. The club rose to national prominence in the late 1970s, winning three consecutive John Player Cups between 1979 and 1981. When the English league system was formalized in 1987, the Tigers became the inaugural champions. This set the stage for a "Golden Era" at the turn of the millennium. Between 1999 and 2002, the club achieved an unprecedented feat:

• Four consecutive Premiership titles

• Back-to-back European Champions Cup titles (2001 and 2002)

  
  

The Modern Era and Current Standing

The Tigers' ability to rebuild and remain at the top is a point of pride for the "Tigers Family" (the club's dedicated fanbase). After a period of transition, the club returned to the summit of English rugby by winning the Gallagher Premiership in 2022 with a dramatic last-minute drop goal.

The Current Team (2025–2026 Season)

As of early 2026, the Tigers remain a formidable force in both the Premiership and the Investec Champions Cup. Currently competing at the top end of the table, the squad is characterized by a "leaner but meaner" approach, blending experienced international veterans with a surge of homegrown talent from the world-renowned Tigers Academy. The club continues to pride itself on a physical, set-piece-dominant style of play that has made Welford Road one of the most intimidating venues for visiting teams in Europe.

Record of Success Fast Facts

For a quick glance at the Tigers' legacy, here are the essential numbers and historical milestones.

• The Relegation Record: Leicester is one of only three clubs never to have been relegated from the top flight of English rugby.

• The 9-Year Run: Between 2005 and 2013, the club appeared in a record nine consecutive Premiership finals.

• The Alphabet Pack: In 1926, the club began the tradition of using letters instead of numbers for player positions, a quirk they maintained for nearly 70 years.

  
  

Iconic Matches: Moments That Defined the Club

• 1880: The Beginning

The club’s first-ever match was a 0–0 draw against Moseley on October 23. It wasn't the most explosive start, but it launched a dynasty.

• 1924: Facing the "Invincibles"

A record 35,000 fans packed into Welford Road to watch the Tigers take on the legendary New Zealand "Invincibles." Though Leicester lost, the match cemented the ground’s status as a world-class rugby venue.

• 2001 & 2002: European Glory

The Tigers became the first team to win back-to-back European Cups. The 2001 final in Paris and the 2002 win in Cardiff are still considered the pinnacle of the club's trophy-laden history.

• 2022: The Last-Minute Miracle

After a decade without a league title, Freddie Burns struck a 79th-minute drop goal to beat Saracens 15–12 at Twickenham, marking one of the most emotional "comeback" titles in Premiership history.

• 2025: Return to the Final

Last season (2024–25), the Tigers fought their way back to the Premiership Final. While they finished as runners-up, it signaled their return as a consistent top-two powerhouse, qualifying them for the current 2025–26 European Champions Cup.

The East Midlands Derby - A Century of Rivalry

The fixture between Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints is not just a game; it is the "East Midlands Derby," widely considered the fiercest and most historic local rivalry in English rugby. Separated by just 37 miles, the two clubs have been locking horns for over 140 years.

Origins and "Roughness"

The first recorded meeting took place on March 3, 1888, at Victoria Park in Leicester. The Tigers won that inaugural encounter 4-0. Even in the early days, the rivalry was intense; by 1894, local newspapers were already commenting on the "roughness" and "feeling" shown by both sets of players.

The Battle for the Midlands

For much of the 20th century, the derby was the focal point of the regional calendar:

• The Fortress: It took the Saints until 1905 to register their first-ever win at Welford Road.

• Since rugby went professional in 1995, the Tigers have historically held the upper hand, winning roughly two-thirds of their encounters. However, the gap has closed significantly in recent seasons, turning the derby into a genuine "toss-of-the-coin" fixture.

  
  

High Stakes and Fireworks

The rivalry reached a boiling point in the 2010s, moving beyond local bragging rights to decide national championships.

• The 2013 Final: The two sides met in the Premiership Final at Twickenham, where Leicester emerged victorious in a match remembered for its incredible physical intensity.

  
  

Recent Years

The tension remains as high as ever. In the 2025–26 season, the sides have already faced each other multiple times across the Premiership and the Premiership Cup, with the spoils being shared in high-scoring, sold-out matches.

The "Tigers Family" vs. "The Shoe Army"

The derby is defined by the fans. Welford Road and Franklin’s Gardens are consistently sold out for these fixtures, creating an atmosphere of "hostile respect." While the players on the pitch battle for every inch, the derby remains a cornerstone of the English rugby community, drawing the largest TV audiences of the regular season.

Current Status (January 2026)

The Tigers and Saints are currently embroiled in a tight race at the top of the Premiership table. Their next meeting is scheduled for January 31, 2026, at Franklin's Gardens in the Premiership Cup, followed by a massive league clash at Welford Road on May 9, 2026, which many experts predict will decide home-field advantage for the playoffs.

Ollie Chessum (Captain - Lock / Back Row)

• The Towering Presence: Standing at 6ft 7in, "Chez" is the heartbeat of the Tigers' engine room. A local boy from Lincolnshire, he embodies the grit of the Tigers Academy.

• International Standing: Now a premier lock for England, Chessum’s profile reached new heights in 2025 when he was selected for the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, starting in the series-clinching second Test.

  
  
  
  

• Style of Play: Versatile enough to play at flanker, he is a lineout specialist and a relentless "workhorse" defender. He captained the club for the first time at the start of the 24/25 season.

  
  

Handré Pollard (Fly-half)

• The Tactical General: A double World Cup winner with South Africa, Pollard is one of the highest-profile stars in the Gallagher Premiership. His arrival in 2022 signaled the Tigers' intent to remain at the top of European rugby.

  
  
  
  

• The Clutch Kicker: Known for his "ice-cold" temperament under pressure, Pollard’s game management and elite goal-kicking are the foundation of the Tigers' attacking strategy in 2026.

• Impact: Beyond his boot, his physical presence as a "big" fly-half allows Leicester to play a direct, punishing style of rugby that tires out opposition defenses.

  
  

Freddie Steward (Fullback)

• The King of the Air: Often cited as the best aerial fullback in world rugby, Steward is a graduate of the Tigers Academy who has already surpassed 100 appearances for his boyhood club by early 2026.

  
  
  
  

• England Mainstay: A consistent starter for England, his reliability under the high ball and powerful counter-attacking make him an indispensable asset for both club and country.

• Accolades: A former England Player of the Year, Steward’s 2025–26 form has seen him return to the top of the Premiership stats for "metres carried" and "defenders beaten."

  
  

Jack van Poortvliet (Scrum-half)

• The Tempo Dictator: Known as "JVP," this lightning-fast scrum-half is the link between the Tigers' powerful forwards and the backline.

  
  
  
  

• International Pedigree: Having captained the England U20s to a Grand Slam, he is now a regular in the senior England squad. After missing the 2023 World Cup due to injury, he returned to peak form in the 24/25 season, helping lead Leicester back to the Premiership Final.

• Key Attribute: His tactical box-kicking is arguably the best in the league, a crucial component of the "Tigers Way" of controlling territory.

  
  

George Martin (Lock / Flanker)

• The Enforcer: At just 24, Martin has already established himself as one of the most physical players in English rugby. Another Academy product, he is renowned for his "bone-crunching" tackles and relentless physicality.

  
  
  
  

• Rising Star: Now an England regular, Martin was awarded an enhanced Elite Player Squad contract for the 2025–26 season. His ability to play both as a lock and a heavy-hitting blindside flanker gives the Tigers a massive physical edge in the scrums and mauls.

• The 2026 Goal: After a runner-up finish in 2025, the current team is widely tipped by pundits to reach the 2026 Premiership Final at Twickenham this June.

  
  

Adam Radwin

Radwin joined Tigers in January from Newcastle Falcons. He is a firm favourite with the fans and known for his quick pace and dynamic try-scoring ability.

Playing on the wing, Radwin was first selected to represent England in 2021 and was awarded Try of the Season for the Tigers in the 2025/25 Gallagher Premiership.

Sadly, the team has announced that Adam Radwin has suffered a medium-term injury that has ruined his hopes for the upcoming Six Nations. This news is a blow for the Tigers team as Radwin has been in supreme form, scoring 20 tries in 24 matches.

Current Squad Snapshot (January 2026)

• Homegrown Talent: Over 40% of the current senior squad are graduates of the Leicester Tigers Academy.

• Global Leaders: The squad features the captains or vice-captains of three different international sides.

  
  

One to Watch: George Pearson

While names like Freddie Steward and Ollie Chessum are already household staples, the 2025–26 season has seen the meteoric rise of George Pearson, a 19-year-old fullback who is quickly becoming the "next big thing" at Welford Road.

The Breakthrough

Pearson’s breakthrough moment came in December 2025 during an Investec Champions Cup clash against French giants La Rochelle. Despite the immense pressure of a European debut, Pearson’s fearless counter-attacking and high-ball security caught the eye of pundits across the continent. His ability to glide through gaps and set up tries under the lights of Welford Road has already earned him a run of starts in the 15 jersey, occasionally pushing Freddie Steward into the wing slots to accommodate Pearson’s pace.

Style of Play - Pearson is the quintessential modern fullback:

• Aerially Dominant: Much like his mentor, Freddie Steward, Pearson has a remarkable "leap," making him a safe pair of hands under the garryowen.

• Playmaking Instincts: He often acts as a secondary fly-half, using a booming left-footed kick to find touch or a deft passing game to link up with the Tigers’ clinical finishers.

• Fearlessness: His performance in La Rochelle—where he returned from a yellow card to immediately set up a crucial try—showcased a mental toughness rarely seen in teenagers.

  
  

The Future

As of January 2026, Pearson has been integrated into the England U20 setup and is already being discussed by Steve Borthwick as a potential "bolter" for the senior squad's summer tours. For Tigers fans, he represents the latest success story of the club’s "Project Tiger" initiative, proving that the pathway from the local Midlands schools to the professional stage is as strong as it has ever been.

2026 Academy Graduates to Track

In addition to Pearson, keep an eye on these two players who have stepped up to senior contracts this season:

• George Marsh (Back Row): A physical "enforcer" who was recently called into the England U20 training squad. He is already being compared to a young George Martin for his work rate in the tight.

• Diamond Ayiehfor (Prop): A powerhouse tighthead graduate from Warwick School. In a club that prides itself on scrummaging, Ayiehfor is being groomed to eventually succeed the likes of Joe Heyes.

  
  
  
  

Today's Matchday News: Tigers Head to South Africa for Champions Cup Decider

As we move into the heart of January 2026, the Leicester Tigers face one of their most daunting and exciting challenges of the season: a trip to Cape Town to face the DHL Stormers. Having played their first fixture today and losing 26:39 to Stormers, they sit towards the bottom half of Pool 3 on 6 points, with Leinster heading the pool on 18 points.

The Stakes: Investec Champions Cup Round 4

Following a dominant 57–14 victory over Aviron Bayonnais at Welford Road last weekend, the Tigers have traveled to the Southern Hemisphere with momentum. Today's clash at the DHL Stadium (January 17, 3:15 PM kick-off) was a "Pool 3" decider. A win in South Africa would not only have secured a home knockout berth but signaled to the rest of Europe that the 2026 Tigers are serious contenders for their third continental crown.

Looking Ahead: The Local Derby

While the focus is on Europe this weekend, fans already have one eye on the end of the month. On Saturday, January 31, the Tigers travel to Franklin's Gardens for the next installment of the East Midlands Derby against Northampton Saints in the Premiership Cup. With the Tigers currently sitting 5th in the Gallagher Premiership table, every match in this mid-season block is vital for building the "winning habit" required for the spring playoffs.

Upcoming Fixtures to Watch:

• Jan 17: DHL Stormers vs. Leicester Tigers (Champions Cup) – Away

• Jan 24: Harlequins vs. Leicester Tigers (Gallagher Premiership) – Away

• Jan 31: Northampton Saints vs. Leicester Tigers (Premiership Cup) – Away

• Feb 6: Leicester Tigers vs. Newcastle Red Bulls (Premiership Cup) – Home

  
  

Fan’s Guide to Welford Road: The Ultimate Matchday

A visit to Mattioli Woods Welford Road is about more than just the 80 minutes on the pitch. To get the most out of your 2026 matchday, follow this local guide to the best pre-match spots and hidden gems.

Where to See the Silverware

Unlike many modern stadiums that hide their history in private lounges, Leicester Tigers keep their heritage front and center.

The Trophy Cabinet: Head to the Tradeview Markets Stand (North Stand). Located between the main reception and the Final Whistle bar, you’ll find the club’s massive trophy cabinet. It houses a century of "spoils," including the English Premiership and European Champions Cup trophies.

The Tigers Family Wall: Right next to the trophy cabinet, check out the commemorative wall featuring the names of season ticket holders, players, and staff with over 10 years of service—a testament to the club's "loyalty first" culture.

Stadium Tours: If you’re visiting on a non-matchday, the club runs guided tours (usually the last Wednesday of every month). These tours offer a "behind-the-scenes" look at the changing rooms and allow you to see the trophies up close.

Pre-Match Pints: The Best Local Pubs

The walk from the city centre to the ground is a rite of passage, lined with historic rugby-first pubs.

The Final Whistle (Inside the Stadium): This is the heart of the matchday. Open three hours before kick-off, it’s one of the largest bars in Leicester and serves the club's signature "Cask Tiger" ale. After the game, it hosts live music from the resident band, Rock Bottom.

The Bowling Green: A historic pub (dating back to 1733) that has become a dedicated rugby hub. It’s famous for its big screens and an atmosphere that "feels like a family gathering" for Tigers fans.

The Local Hero: Situated just a stone's throw from the stadium, this is a classic "Greene King" sports pub that is usually packed with supporters in their scarlet, green, and white hoops an hour before kick-off.

The Fox Hut Bar: A popular gastro-pub on Welford Road itself, perfect for those wanting a pre-match meal alongside a buzzing atmosphere.

Matchday Entertainment

The Plaza: Arrive at least 90 minutes early to enjoy the Plaza area outside the North Stand. In 2026, this area features DJ Ian, interactive games like the inflatable dartboard, and the "Jaecoo" car showcases.

The Plaza Prowl: Don't miss the players' arrival. Roughly 80 minutes before kick-off, the squad walks through the fans on the Plaza to enter the stadium—this is your best chance for a high-five or a quick photo.

• The "Big Boot" Challenge: Stay in your seat during halftime for the "Ultimate Big Boot" on-pitch competition, where fans try to catch high balls launched from a cannon for prizes.

  
  

Tips for the 2026 Season

• Go Cashless: Mattioli Woods Welford Road is a fully cashless stadium. Ensure you have card or mobile payment ready for pies, pints, and programmes.

• Fan Radio: You can buy a "Tigers Fan Radio" at the club shop for about £10. It allows you to listen to the referee's microphone or the live TV commentary during the game—a game-changer for understanding complex scrum penalties!