Rugby has always stood for more than what happens on the pitch.
Community, resilience and togetherness sit at the heart of the sport and nowhere was that more evident than in the 2026 Slater Cup.
Held at Villa Park, this year’s fixture between Gloucester Rugby and Leicester Tigers carried a deeper meaning. The match, and the activity surrounding it, formed part of a wider fundraising effort supporting the 4Ed Foundation; a charity established by former player Ed Slater following his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2022.
Alongside this, the rugby world also rallied around former England captain Lewis Moody, who has recently been diagnosed with MND, adding further poignancy and urgency to the campaign.
The Event: Racing for a Cause
In the build-up to the 4Ed Slater Cup, a powerful show of solidarity saw rugby legends come together for the “Race to the Slater Cup”, which was a long-distance charity cycle from Kingsholm and Welford Road to Villa Park.
Captained by Mike Tindall and Martin Johnson, and featuring a host of former internationals, the ride covered more than 45–60 miles, raising vital funds and awareness for those affected by MND. Funds raised were split between the 4Ed Foundation and support for Lewis Moody and his family, helping provide care, home adaptations and essential support for those living with the condition.
It was a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of rugby; competitive, united, and driven by something far greater.
Our Involvement: Bringing the Campaign to Life
Working closely with the team at Gloucester Rugby Foundation, we were proud to support the campaign through the design and production of bespoke 4Ed cycling jerseys, gilets and associated merchandise.
From concept through to delivery, the focus was on creating products that didn’t just perform on the road, but carried meaning. Each piece was designed to represent the strength of the rugby community and the individuals at the centre of this campaign.
The cycling jerseys became a focal point of the activation, worn by legends of the game as they rode into Villa Park, before later being signed and used to drive further fundraising through auctions and donations. Alongside this, supporting merchandise extended the reach of the campaign beyond the ride itself, giving fans and supporters the opportunity to show their backing and contribute to the cause.
A Campaign That Hits Home
Rather than a simple one-off activation, this was a campaign rooted in real stories, real people and a community coming together in the face of adversity.
The 4Ed Foundation continues to provide critical support to individuals and families affected by MND, offering financial assistance, access to care and moments of relief during incredibly challenging times. Being trusted to play a small part in amplifying that mission is something we’re incredibly proud of.
What It Means to Scimitar
Jon Rew, Managing Director at Scimitar, said:
“The rugby community has always shown its strength in moments like this. To support the 4Ed campaign and play a role in bringing this initiative to life alongside Gloucester Rugby Foundation is a privilege. It’s a reminder of the impact sport can have when it comes together for the right reasons. Initiatives like this create lasting awareness and unity across the game. If we can help amplify that message and support those affected in any way, then we’re doing exactly what we should as a brand embedded in the sport.”
Adam Church-Millward, Head of Marketing at Scimitar, said:
“Working alongside Gloucester Rugby Foundation on the Slater Cup campaign gave us the chance to play a small part in something that genuinely matters. Seeing the jerseys worn by players who have given so much to the game, all in support of a cause that touches so many, is something we’re incredibly proud of. I personally know a family affected by MND and have seen the impact it has, not just on the individual, but on everyone around them. That brings a different level of perspective to campaigns like this, and reinforces why they’re so important.”
Supporting the Cause
The Slater Cup continues to be a powerful platform for raising awareness and funds for MND, and the work of the 4Ed Foundation remains ongoing. If you’d like to support the campaign or learn more, you can contribute via the official fundraising page here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/racetoslatercup
Alternatively, you can play your part by purchasing the official 4Ed Race to the Slater Cup merchandise, ranging from t-shirts and cycling jerseys to gilets and bibshorts. There’s also discounted bundles so you can kit out for cheaper. Explore the range here: https://4edeventmerch.com
Every donation helps provide vital care, support and hope to those affected by MND.
