Exeter Chiefs
Exeter Chiefs are a men's rugby club founded in 1871 who play in the Gallagher Premiership (Tier 1). Their home ground is Sandy Park Stadium, which holds 15,600.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| Founded | 1871 |
|---|---|
| League | Gallagher Premiership |
| Tier | Tier 1 |
| Head coach | Rob Baxter |
| Home ground | Sandy Park Stadium |
| Capacity | 15,600 |
| Nearest station | Digby and Sowton |
| Local derby | Bath Rugby |
| Marquee fixture | West Country derby vs Bath |
| Matchday pub | The Bowling Green - short walk from ground |
| Official website | https://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk |
Honours
- Premiership champions in 2016-17 and 2019-20
- European Champions Cup winners in 2020
Club history
Exeter Rugby Club was founded in 1871 and only reached the top flight in 2010 by beating Bristol in the Championship play-off.
Rob Baxter was appointed director of rugby in March 2009 and oversaw promotion in his first season in charge.
Exeter won their first Premiership title in 2016-17 by beating Wasps and added a second in 2019-20.
Exeter beat Racing 92 31-27 in October 2020 to lift the European Champions Cup completing a continental and domestic double.
Sandy Park has been the club's purpose-built home since 2006.
Recent seasons
Exeter sacked defence coach Omar Mouneimne in October 2024 after their worst start to a Premiership season with six straight defeats.
The Chiefs suffered a record home defeat at Sandy Park losing 69-17 to Bordeaux Bègles in the Champions Cup in January 2025.
Rob Baxter announced 15 player departures ahead of the 2025-26 rebuild including Townsend and Vermeulen.
Exeter members are weighing a proposed takeover involving American investors linked to AFC Bournemouth's Black Knight Football Club.
Notable players
Club legends
- Sam Simmonds
- Jack Nowell
- Luke Cowan-Dickie
- Don Armand
- Gareth Steenson
- Phil Dollman
Current squad
- Henry Slade
- Ross Vintcent
- Josh Hodge
- Will Becconsall
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
- Tom Hooper
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Frequently asked questions
When were Exeter Chiefs founded?
Exeter Chiefs were founded in 1871.
Where do Exeter Chiefs play?
Exeter Chiefs play at Sandy Park Stadium, which holds 15,600. The nearest station is Digby and Sowton.
What league do Exeter Chiefs play in?
Exeter Chiefs compete in the Gallagher Premiership, tier 1 of English rugby's league structure.
What have Exeter Chiefs won?
Exeter Chiefs's honours include Premiership champions in 2016-17 and 2019-20; European Champions Cup winners in 2020.
Who are Exeter Chiefs's local rivals?
Exeter Chiefs's local derby is against Bath Rugby.
Who is the Exeter Chiefs head coach?
Exeter Chiefs are coached by Rob Baxter.
Other Gallagher Premiership clubs
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