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Legends (Re)Assemble

Rugby fans are in for a treat as England and Ireland legends return to London for the annual England v Ireland Legends match, a thrilling curtain-raiser to the Guinness Six Nations clash between the two nations. This year’s encounter promises high drama, old rivalries, and charitable spirit, all under the floodlights at the Twickenham Stoop Stadium on Friday, 20th February 2026, KO 7.30pm.

Purchase your tickets here. 

All proceeds from the match will go to the Moody Family Trust, supporting World Cup-winning England flanker Lewis Moody, who revealed in 2025 that he is battling motor neurone disease (MND). The rugby community has united behind Lewis, and the Legends match offers fans a chance to show their support.

The annual fixture celebrates the legacy of the late Stuart Mangan, who played for Hammersmith & Fulham RFC in London. The first match for the Stuart Mangan Trophy took place in 2010 at the Stoop and was founded by rugby greats including Shane Byrne, Len Dinneen, Andy Lee, Harvey Thornycroft, and Jason Leonard MBE.

Now in its 16th year, the match alternates between England and Ireland, bringing together former internationals and club legends from the Premiership, Irish and French clubs, and Olympic Sevens squads. It’s a chance to relive past glories, compete for bragging rights, and, importantly, raise funds for charity.

The 2026 iteration will once again feature several household names such as Steffan and Delon Armitage, Matt Banahan, Ben Foden, Luther Burrell, Dev Toner and Jordi Murphy, with the full line-ups and starting teams to be announced closer to match day.

Jason Leonard MBE, commenting on this year’s event, said:
“This match means so much to all the players involved. It’s an opportunity to play against old rivals, but at the same time great friends. Playing for the Stuart Mangan Trophy, and raising funds for charity, is one of the highlights of the season. This year, all of the fundraising will be supporting the Moody Family Trust. Lewis is a true inspiration to everyone in how he has chosen to face his challenge against MND. I can’t think of a braver person. Evenings like this can’t happen without help, so a big thank you to all our sponsors and our fans for their unwavering support. Enjoy the evening.”

Shane Byrne added:
“This annual match means so much, not only to me but also to everyone who has supported us over the years. It is a great occasion, bringing past rivals and teammates back together, to play for the Stuart Mangan Trophy and rugby charities. This year, all of the money raised will go to supporting the Moody Family Trust. Lewis was a teammate of mine on the 2005 British and Irish Lions Tour. He was a formidable player, inspiring everyone around him, and continues to be a tremendous man off the pitch.”

Thanks to supporters, fans, and main sponsor Ark Underwriting Bermuda, the annual Legends match has raised over £1.6 million for rugby charities in the UK and Ireland. This year’s match will continue that legacy, ensuring that every pound raised goes directly to supporting the Moody Family Trust.

Fans can secure tickets for this Friday night rugby thriller at the Twickenham Stoop Stadium, set to be a memorable prelude to England v Ireland in the Guinness Six Nations.

Purchase your tickets here.