The summer sun might be teasing its way through the clouds, but things are already heating up for Arbroath FC as we prepare to kick off our 2025/26 campaign in the Premier Sports Cup. With a return to the Championship already in the bag, it’s time to add some early-season drama—with a side of silverware ambition.
The fixtures have dropped, and here’s what you need to know: we’re drawn in a tasty group alongside St Mirren, Ayr United, Annan Athletic, and Forfar Athletic—a mix of top-tier experience and spirited challengers. All eyes will be on Gayfield come Saturday 12 July, when we host Premiership outfit St Mirren at 3pm to open the campaign. That’s one to mark in thick red pen.
Here’s our full group schedule:
St Mirren’s final clash with Ayr United on Sunday 27 July is one of five group stage games selected for live TV coverage on Premier Sports, showcasing the quality on offer in this year’s cup.
In case you need a refresher after the summer holidays: group stage matches award three points for a win, one for a draw, and—brace yourself—a bonus point goes to the winner of any penalty shoot-out if a game ends level. It’s a format made for drama, and we’re here for it.
After the group stages, it’s all to play for. The eight group winners and three best runners-up will earn their spot in the last 16, scheduled for the weekend of August 16/17. That’s when the big guns drop in—Celtic, Rangers, Aberdeen, Hibernian, and Dundee United, fresh from European duties. Fancy a crack at them? First, we’ve got business to handle.
From there, it’s knockout football all the way:
It’s not just the Red Lichties chasing cup glory. Across the eight groups, 37 SPFL clubs are joined by Highland League champions Brora Rangers, runners-up Brechin City, and Lowland League champs Bonnyrigg Rose. From Elgin to East Kilbride, the road to the final is filled with underdogs and powerhouses alike.
Whether you’re travelling away, tuning in from home, or heading down to Gayfield with your scarf and pie in hand, this campaign promises thrills from the first whistle.
So here’s to a cracking cup run—and who knows, maybe even a night to remember in December.
Keep an eye on the Arbroath FC website and socials for ticket info, updates, and matchday coverage.
Come on the Red Lichties!
