Great Western Railway is putting on a major transport operation for rugby fans this weekend, adding 11 extra trains and more than 4,700 additional seats for Wales’ Autumn International clash with New Zealand at the Principality Stadium.

All pre-match services into Cardiff Central will be reservation-only, and passengers are being urged to book ahead to avoid being turned away. Six extra trains will run before the 1510 kick-off, supplementing the usual timetable, while another five will run after the final whistle to help supporters leave the city.

GWR says trains are expected to be extremely busy in the immediate post-match period and a queueing system will once again be in place outside Cardiff Central. Those heading east towards Newport will, as in previous years, be directed to the square in front of the station instead of Riverside Car Park.

In total, 30 trains will run before the match, offering more than 14,500 seats for supporters arriving from across the region. Fans are being encouraged to travel early, with stadium gates opening well ahead of kick-off. Around 27 trains will run after the anticipated 1700 finish, with more than 14,000 seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations will not apply for return journeys.

GWR Customer Services Director Rachel Geliamassi said:

“We’re pleased to once again be supporting travel to and from the Principality Stadium for this Autumn International. However, customers are advised that trains immediately before and after the match will be busy, and a queueing system will be in place at the station. We would encourage customers to check journey times and allow sufficient time to board trains safely.”

Transport for Wales will also operate additional trains before and after the fixture, adding further capacity for the tens of thousands of fans heading to the Welsh capital. With demand expected to be high, supporters are being advised to book their outward journeys now to avoid disappointment.

Image: Great Western Railway