First ever Celtic Challenge Final venue confirmed

The Celtic Challenge has confirmed that its inaugural Final will take place at Edinburgh Rugby’s Hive Stadium on Saturday 28 March.

In its third season, the cross-border competition contended by teams from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the league has already established itself as a launchpad for players looking to make the leap to Test rugby.

This will be the first season that Celtic Challenge will have a play-off format. The top four teams will compete in a semi-final before progression to Edinburgh and a celebration of Celtic rugby in the Scottish capital.

“We are incredibly pleased to be staging the inaugural Celtic Challenge Final at The Hive,’ Josh Payne said on behalf of the Celtic Challenge.

“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.”

Five rounds into the 2025/26 season and defending champions Wolfhounds lead the way again.

With five bonus point wins from five outings, the side are closely followed by Welsh outfit, Gwalia Lightning, and their Irish counterparts, Clovers.

Currently Glasgow Warriors are placed fourth in the league table with nine points, with Edinburgh Rugby four points behind.

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 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 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.”