Police called to Northampton v Cardiff Champions Cup match over social media threats

Northamptonshire Police are investigating threats posted on social media that brought officers to Franklin's Gardens while Northampton were beating Cardiff in the Champions Cup on Sunday 18 October 2026.

Police were called to the ground at about 7pm UK time (8pm SAST). The game had kicked off at 17:30 UK time, so about half an hour was still to be played when officers were called.

The match was played to the end, and Saints completed a 28-12 win. As a precaution, players from both teams left the field as soon as the final whistle went.

Police say their enquiries are continuing and that they are working closely with Northampton and their policing partners.

Northampton said they were sorry that supporters had not been able to see the players after the final whistle. The club added that the safety of its supporters, players, staff and officials would always be its top priority.