Sale FC
Sale FC are a men's rugby club founded in 1861 who play in the National League 1 (Tier 3). Their home ground is Heywood Road, which holds 3,387.
Last updated May 2026
Key facts
| Founded | 1861 |
|---|---|
| League | National League 1 |
| Tier | Tier 3 |
| Home ground | Heywood Road |
| Capacity | 3,387 |
| Nearest station | Brooklands tram |
| Local derby | Sale Sharks |
| Matchday pub | Clubhouse bar at Heywood Road |
| Official website | https://www.salefc.com/ |
Club history
Sale FC was founded in 1861 by a group drawn mainly from Sale Cricket Club making it the fifth oldest surviving rugby club in the world.
The club created its Minute Book of ten rules in 1865 which is reputedly the world's oldest existing rugby rule book.
Sale moved into Heywood Road in 1905 after buying a field at the end of the road.
The professional offshoot adopted the Sale Sharks name in 1999 before eventually moving away from Heywood Road in 2003 leaving Sale FC at its original ground.
Sale FC was promoted from National League 2 North at the end of the 2017-18 season returning the historic name to the third tier.
Recent seasons
Lost 34-26 at home to Rotherham Titans on 25 April 2026 in the final day of the 2025-26 National League 1 season conceding the title.
Competed throughout the 2024-25 National League 1 season at Heywood Road in Sale Greater Manchester.
Featured prominently in the 2025-26 National League 1 promotion race finishing in the top half of the table.
Notable players
Club legends
- Fran Cotton
- Jason Robinson
- Hal Sever
- Wilf Wooller
Turning Sale FC footage into insight
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Frequently asked questions
When were Sale FC founded?
Sale FC were founded in 1861.
Where do Sale FC play?
Sale FC play at Heywood Road, which holds 3,387. The nearest station is Brooklands tram.
What league do Sale FC play in?
Sale FC compete in the National League 1, tier 3 of English rugby's league structure.
Who are Sale FC's local rivals?
Sale FC's local derby is against Sale Sharks.
Other National League 1 clubs
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