The Unpredictable Streak Ends: Gallagher Premiership’s Six-Year Run of Different Winners Set to Conclude
The Gallagher Premiership’s remarkable streak of having a different champion in each of the last six seasons is poised to end this weekend, according to official league sources. The 2024-25 final between Exeter Chiefs and Bath Rugby will determine the winner, breaking a sequence that has seen six distinct clubs claim the title since 2019-20.
How the Streak Was Built
The period from 2015-16 to 2019-20 was dominated by Saracens and Exeter Chiefs, with the former winning three titles and the latter two. However, after Saracens were relegated in 2020 for breaching salary cap rules, the competition shifted. Exeter’s 2020-21 title was followed by upsets, including Harlequins’ 2021 victory and Leicester Tigers’ 2021-22 win. Since then, the league has featured:
– 2019-20: Exeter Chiefs
– 2020-21: Harlequins
– 2021-22: Leicester Tigers
– 2022-23: Saracens
– 2023-24: Northampton Saints
– 2024-25: Bath Rugby (reigning champions)
The 2024-25 final, however, will mark the first time since 2019-20 that a team has won back-to-back titles, according to the Premiership’s official website.
What’s at Stake for the Finalists
Exeter Chiefs, who finished third in the regular season, face a historic challenge. A win would make them the first team in league history to claim the title after a top-three finish, per rugby analysts at Sky Sports. Bath Rugby, the 2024-25 champions, aim to secure their second title in three seasons.
The final, scheduled for Saturday at Twickenham, has drawn comparisons to the 2021-22 season, when Leicester Tigers’ underdog victory sparked similar discussions about the league’s unpredictability.
Why This Matters for Rugby’s Landscape
The Gallagher Premiership’s competitive balance has contrasted with other leagues like La Liga, where Barcelona and Real Madrid typically dominate. However, the 2024-25 final could signal a shift. “This year’s teams are more evenly matched than in recent seasons,” said former player and commentator Mike Catt, citing the league’s tight regular-season standings.
The outcome also carries implications for player recruitment and club strategies, as teams aim to break the cycle of dominance.
What’s Next After the Final?
If Exeter wins, it would end the six-year streak and set a new precedent. If Bath retains, the league will face questions about whether the current era of parity can continue. Either way, the final promises to be a defining moment for English rugby.
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with kickoff at 3:00 PM GMT.
Gallagher Premiership Official Website
Sky Sports Rugby Coverage
Related reading