What Should You Know About the Women's Rugby World Cup?

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is set to be an exhilarating competition, with England hosting the event from 22 August to 27 September. As the reigning champions of the Women's Six Nations, England enters the tournament as the favourite, looking to add a third World Cup title to their name. Matches will be broadcast live across various BBC platforms, ensuring fans don't miss any of the action. With 16 teams competing, including debutants Brazil, this tournament promises to showcase the best in women’s rugby.

Last updated: 03 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• England are the reigning champions of the Women's Six Nations and enter the World Cup as strong contenders.
• The tournament features 16 teams, expanding from the previous edition's 12, with Brazil making its debut.
• Matches will be broadcast live on BBC platforms, including TV, radio, and digital channels.
• The final will take place at Twickenham Stadium, which has already sold out.
• Significant player performances are expected from stars like Ilona Maher and Ellie Kildunne.

Overview of the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, taking place in England, marks a pivotal moment for women's sport. Scheduled from 22 August to 27 September, this tournament not only brings together the best teams in women's rugby but also aims to elevate the profile of women's sports in general. The competition will feature 16 teams, an increase from the previous tournament, allowing more nations to showcase their talent on the world stage.

Format and Structure of the Tournament

The tournament will be organised into four pools, with four teams in each pool. The teams will compete in a round-robin format, where each team plays all the others in their pool. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the knockout stage, culminating in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and ultimately, the final. This format ensures that every match counts, with teams vying for a place in the final at Twickenham.

England's Journey and Expectations

England's women's rugby team, known as the Red Roses, enters the tournament with an impressive record, having won their last 27 matches. Their victory in the 2025 Women's Six Nations, secured by a nail-biting 43-42 win over France at Twickenham, has solidified their status as favourites. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, England aims to capture their third World Cup title, following their previous wins in 1994 and 2014.

Key Players to Watch

Several players are expected to make a significant impact during the tournament. Key figures include:

• Ellie Kildunne: The full-back was named World Rugby's Women's Player of the Year and is renowned for her game-changing abilities.
• Ilona Maher: A global superstar from the United States, Maher’s dynamic playstyle and popularity will draw significant attention.
• Emma Orr: Scotland's powerful centre has been a standout performer, known for her physicality and skill.
• Aoife Wafer: Despite injury, the Irish number eight is highly regarded and will be keen to return to full fitness during the tournament.

Broadcasting and Coverage

The BBC will provide extensive coverage of the Women's Rugby World Cup, ensuring fans can enjoy every match live. Matches involving England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland will be broadcast on BBC One or BBC Two, while all games will be available on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app. Radio commentary will also be available on Radio 5 Live and Radio 5 Sports Extra, offering fans multiple ways to stay connected to the action.

Special Programming

In addition to match broadcasts, the BBC will offer a range of special programming related to the tournament. Regular editions of the Rugby Union Weekly podcast will feature insights and analysis, while a special series titled Barely Rugby, hosted by comedian Harriet Kemsley, will provide a lighter take on the sport with appearances by England players Hannah Botterman and Meg Jones. This programming aims to engage a broader audience and highlight the excitement surrounding women’s rugby.

Venues for the World Cup Matches

The matches will take place across eight venues, including:

• Twickenham Stadium, London: Hosting the final and third-place play-off.
• Ashton Gate, Bristol: Venue for two quarter-finals and both semi-finals.
• Sandy Park, Exeter: Hosting pool games and two quarter-finals.
• Stadium of Light, Sunderland: Opening match featuring England against the USA.
• Brighton and Hove Albion Stadium
• Salford Community Stadium
• Franklin's Gardens, Northampton
• York Community Stadium

Historical Context of the Women's Rugby World Cup

The Women's Rugby World Cup has a rich history, with only three nations having lifted the trophy since its inception. New Zealand holds the record for the most titles, winning the tournament an impressive six times. England, having won it twice, will be looking to close the gap and establish themselves as a dominant force in women's rugby. The USA won the inaugural tournament in 1991, marking a significant milestone in women's sports.

Previous Women's World Cup Finals

Here’s a historical overview of the past World Cup finals:

1. 1991: USA 19-6 England, Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff
2. 1994: England 38-23 USA, Raeburn Place, Edinburgh
3. 1998: New Zealand 44-12 USA, National Rugby Centre Stadium, Amsterdam
4. 2002: New Zealand 19-9 England, Olympic Stadium, Barcelona
5. 2006: New Zealand 25-17 England, Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
6. 2010: New Zealand 13-10 England, Twickenham Stoop, London
7. 2014: England 21-9 Canada, Stade Jean-Bouin, Paris
8. 2017: New Zealand 41-23 England, Ravenhill Stadium, Belfast
9. 2021: New Zealand 34-31 England, Eden Park, Auckland

Anticipated Match Schedule

The tournament kicks off on 22 August, with England facing the USA in the opening match. Here’s a brief overview of the initial match schedule:

• 22 August: England vs. USA at 19:30, Stadium of Light
• 23 August: Australia vs. Samoa, Salford Community Stadium
• 24 August: Ireland vs. Japan, Franklin's Gardens
• 30 August: England vs. Samoa, Franklin's Gardens
• 31 August: Ireland vs. Spain, Franklin's Gardens

As the tournament progresses, the excitement will build towards the quarter-finals on 13 and 14 September, followed by the semi-finals on 19 and 20 September. The final, set for 27 September at Twickenham, promises to be a historic event, with thousands expected to attend.

Conclusion

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is not just another sporting event; it represents a significant step towards the recognition and celebration of women's sports globally. With England as hosts and strong contenders, the tournament is poised to capture the hearts of rugby fans everywhere. Will England reclaim the title on home soil, or will another nation rise to challenge their dominance? The world of women’s rugby awaits the unfolding drama with bated breath.

#WomensRugbyWorldCup #RedRoses #Rugby2025

FAQs

When does the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 start?

The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 starts on 22 August and runs until 27 September 2025.

Where will the final of the Women’s Rugby World Cup take place?

The final will take place at Twickenham Stadium in London on 27 September 2025.

How many teams are participating in the tournament?

Sixteen teams will participate in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, an increase from the previous tournament’s twelve teams.

What is the format of the tournament?

The tournament will feature a round-robin format in pools, with the top two teams from each pool advancing to the knockout stage.

How can I watch the matches?

Matches will be broadcast live on BBC One, BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app.