The Talk Club Cup will return in 2026, bringing Bristol City and Bristol Rovers together once again for a powerful charity football match in support of men’s mental health.
Taking place on Friday 22 May 2026 at Ashton Gate Stadium, the Talk Club Cup will unite former players from both clubs alongside local celebrities, using football rivalry as a force for good to raise awareness, break down stigma and generate vital funds for mental fitness support across Bristol.
Bristol Rovers play Bristol City in the Talk Club Cup charity match on April 29, 2025 at Memorial Stadium in Bristol, England. (Photo by Rogan/Bristol City)
Turning Blue Monday into Red & Blue Monday
The announcement comes today on Monday 19 January, often referred to as Blue Monday. While the label is largely symbolic, it reflects a time of year when many people experience a dip in mood and motivation.
In response, Bristol City Robins Foundation, Bristol Rovers Community Trust and Talk Club are coming together to turn Blue Monday on its head, launching Red & Blue Monday -a united city-wide message focused on community, connection and mental health.
A Proven Impact
The inaugural Talk Club Cup, held at The Memorial Ground in April, proved the power of collaboration across the city. The event generated strong engagement and delivered real impact, helping to sustain vital mental health provision including:
- 19 Talk Clubs across Bristol, including sessions hosted by both clubs
- Bristol Rovers Community Trust’s own mental health programmes
- The Robins Foundation’s weekly mental health sessions, Robins Talk
In Bristol alone, 25 men lose their lives to suicide every year. Events like the Talk Club Cup play a crucial role in ensuring men across the city have access to preventative, community-based mental fitness support.
Event Details
- What: Talk Club Cup 2026 – Charity Football Match
- When: Friday 22 May 2026
- Where: Ashton Gate Stadium
- Who: Bristol City Robins Foundation, Bristol Rovers Community Trust & Talk Club
- Why: To raise awareness, break stigma and fund men’s mental health support
Bristol Rovers play Bristol City in the Talk Club Cup charity match on April 29, 2025 at Memorial Stadium in Bristol, England. (Photo by Rogan/Bristol City)
Bristol Rovers play Bristol City in the Talk Club Cup charity match on April 29, 2025 at Memorial Stadium in Bristol, England. (Photo by Rogan/Bristol City)
Tickets On Sale
Tickets will be sold via Bristol Sport Tickets.
Please Note: Tickets will be delivered to you closer to the event date.
Mascot Packages
Mascot packages are available for the game and priced at £ 50 including VAT
This will include 1x Adult and 1 x Child ticket to the game plus:
- Pre match penalty shootout
- Pre match tour
- Tour of changing rooms
- Walk out with teams
- X1 child ticket
Please note: This allows one adult pitch side as child comes out of tunnel and we cannot guarantee which player mascot will walk out with .
By coming together as a city, we can continue to grow together, improve lives and inspire our community.
