Barbarians to face Wales in Twickenham summer rugby double header
A thrilling day of rugby awaits as men's and women's teams face off
The Barbarians have announced they will host Wales in a men's and women's rugby double header at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium.
The event takes place on Saturday, 27th June 2026 and features back-to-back matches showcasing teams from both sides of the game.
The fixtures start with the men’s Barbarians v Wales at 2pm, followed by the women's teams kicking off at 5pm.
The Barbarians and Wales share a history that stretches back over a century, with their first meeting in 1915.
The two sides previously contested a double header in 2019 at Principality Stadium, splitting honours with the Barbarians men’s team losing and the women's team winning their respective matches.
Return to Twickenham promises flair and passion
Barbarian F.C. President John Spencer spoke about the significance of the upcoming fixtures.
"Barbarians fixtures excite supporters like no other and being able to announce a double header encounter will only amplify that excitement," Spencer said.
"Our men’s and women’s teams will be centre stage in a landmark day of rugby in London as we take on a true rugby nation, twice in one day - Wales. The day will be a prime example of what Barbarians F.C. stand for – flair, passion and the global spirit of the game."
The women’s squad is expected to feature stars from the global stage as well as players from the English PWR league, according to Fiona Stockley, Barbarians Women's Lead.
"The Club is delighted to welcome the Welsh Women’s squad to the Allianz Stadium for a repeat of our double header fixture in 2019," Stockley said.
"The Barbarians spirit in every team assembled is all about flair, skill, and camaraderie, and we expect a truly entertaining brand of rugby from a rich squad of players."
Wales looks ahead to the Nations Championship
For Wales, the match serves as a crucial build-up to the inaugural Nations Championship in July 2026. Wales Men’s Head Coach Steve Tandy highlighted the importance of the game.
"Playing against the Barbarians is always a very special occasion. They play with freedom and creativity and bring together some of the best players in the world. This is a game that will be an important part of our preparation," Tandy said.
"It will offer up some exciting action for fans."
Wales Women’s Head Coach Sean Lynn echoed the sentiment and praised the Barbarians' contribution to rugby's culture.
"The Baabaas are a key part of rugby’s culture and history and have the ability to attract world-class talent," Lynn said.
Tickets are expected to sell quickly for what promises to be an unmissable day of high-class rugby at the home of English rugby.