In September 2025, Twickenham will once again be the stage for one of rugby's greatest spectacles as the Women's Rugby World Cup final arrives in town. Organizers are feeling the weight of expectation, not just to deliver a thrilling tournament, but to ensure that it leaves a lasting legacy for women's rugby. After New Zealand’s stunning 2022 tournament, where the Black Ferns triumphed over England in front of 42,000 fans at Eden Park, the standard has been set high. Now, the pressure falls on England to not only reclaim their crown but to elevate the sport to unprecedented heights.
The Red Roses, currently the No. 1 women’s rugby team in the world, have embraced the immense pressure. With a string of dominant performances—including a recent 49-31 victory over New Zealand in the WXV 1 tournament—England has demonstrated that they are the team to beat. Yet, as coach John Mitchell and his players know all too well, form alone won’t secure them the ultimate prize at Twickenham next year. They’ve been here before, and the stakes are higher than ever.
England’s Rise and the Stars Who Shine
The Red Roses' dominance has been staggering. England’s Six Nations victories have become a formality, with three consecutive Grand Slams since 2019. Their 19-match unbeaten run is a testament to their consistency, but success at the World Cup will require more than just statistics. The team’s superstars, including Ellie Kildunne and Abby Dow, will need to be at their game-changing best. These players have the power to turn a match on its head and captivate audiences with their brilliance.
But England’s aspirations go beyond winning the tournament. They are determined to inspire a new generation of rugby players, ensuring that the sport reaches more people than ever before. Already, there are signs of growth. In 2023, a record 58,498 fans attended England’s Six Nations clash against France at Twickenham, and the sport’s visibility is growing with TV audiences peaking at 1.9 million during their rematch in Bordeaux.
The wider impact is tangible. Participation rates in women’s rugby are surging, with nearly two million players globally, according to World Rugby. But it’s not just about numbers—it's about creating a platform where women and girls see themselves in the sport. Sally Horrox, World Rugby’s head of women’s rugby, encapsulates the mission: “We’re part of a movement. If we can harness the power of the 2025 tournament, we can change perceptions and show the world that rugby is for everyone.”
The Challenges Ahead
While the tournament promises to boost the sport’s popularity, those at the grassroots level are acutely aware of the challenges that come with increased interest. Bronwen Jackson-Turner, women’s captain at London’s Ironside Rugby Club, is optimistic about the future but realistic about the pressures it will bring. “If the World Cup brings the expected growth, we need more pitches, more referees, better infrastructure,” she explains. “It’s not just about getting people through the door, it’s about being able to sustain that growth.”
The infrastructure gap in women’s rugby is a critical issue. Team GB Women’s Sevens coach, Giselle Mather, who won the World Cup with England in 1994, reflects on missed opportunities from the past, particularly the 2010 World Cup in England. Though successful in drawing fans, the legacy of that tournament failed to materialize in terms of lasting infrastructure and development. This time around, there is a determination to get it right.
Facilities are a fundamental concern. “Something as basic as female toilets and changing rooms shouldn’t be an afterthought,” says Mather. Clubs across the country are facing these practical challenges head-on, but they need more funding to make sure that the women’s game has the foundation it needs to thrive.
Lessons from the Past, Hope for the Future
One of the clearest lessons for rugby comes from another sport—football. The 2022 Women’s European Championship, where the Lionesses captivated the nation with their dramatic victory over Germany, offers a blueprint for how to make the 2025 World Cup a lasting success. Maggie Alphonsi, former England star and World Cup winner, believes women’s rugby can learn a great deal from football’s success: “The WSL is a huge success. It’s on TV frequently, and we know the players’ journeys. Women’s rugby has to follow that path—making players household names is vital.”
But, Alphonsi warns, it’s not enough to just put on a great tournament. There needs to be long-term investment in coaches, officials, and community engagement to keep the momentum going. “Legacy is the buzzword, but it’s about making sure we have the right people in place to deliver on that promise.”
The sport is also exploring more significant changes that could reshape the game for women. One controversial idea is the introduction of a smaller ball, similar to what’s used in the WNBA, which could help players adapt better to the demands of the game. However, opinions are divided. Alphonsi, who spent her career competing with a standard-sized rugby ball, is resistant to the change: “I loved that rugby was the same for everyone, regardless of gender. I think some things should be left alone.”
No changes to the elite women’s game will be made until after the World Cup, as the focus remains on ensuring the 2025 tournament is a success. With the eyes of the world on them, the Red Roses are embracing the challenge. They know that anything less than victory at Twickenham would be a missed opportunity—not just for the team, but for the future of the women’s game.
As Giselle Mather says, “If you want to be No. 1, there’s always going to be pressure. But that’s what the best teams thrive on.”
