Edinburgh Rugby have confirmed that their upcoming EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final against Bath will be played at Hive Stadium, rather than moving to the larger Scottish Gas Murrayfield. In a message to supporters, Managing Director Douglas Struth said the decision followed careful analysis, and that the benefits of playing the high-stakes fixture in the club’s purpose-built home outweighed any potential drawbacks.
It will be Edinburgh’s first European semi-final in a decade, and Struth believes Hive Stadium will provide the best possible atmosphere for the occasion. He highlighted the role the venue has already played in creating “unforgettable memories” and suggested the match will showcase the potential for future expansion.
Struth also used the message to thank supporters for standing by the team through a season of ups and downs. He reserved special mention for the Edinburgh Rugby Fan Group, who were invited to deliver the match ball ahead of last weekend’s win over the Vodacom Bulls—an important result that secured their place in the semi-finals.
The Managing Director acknowledged that staying at Hive will limit ticket availability, but confirmed that season ticket holders and Castle Club members would receive priority access when tickets go on sale. He encouraged other supporters to consider joining the Castle Club to gain access to the pre-sale, noting its affordability and additional benefits.
Struth also addressed why European knockout fixtures aren’t included in season ticket packages, explaining that these matches fall under the governance of tournament organisers and involve different revenue and ticketing rules, which are consistent across all participating clubs.
Looking ahead, he confirmed that season ticket prices for next year will be frozen, and urged fans to continue their support as the club pushes for success both in the BKT URC and on the European stage.
With Friday’s league match against the Sharks also expected to sell out, the club is clearly hoping that a run of packed crowds at Hive can help fuel a strong end to the season.
