The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be the biggest in history, with 16 teams competing for the first time. Hosted in England from August to September 2025, this tournament will showcase the best in women’s rugby. Defending champions, New Zealand will aim to retain their title, while rising teams will look to make their mark.
This article explores the details of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, including where it will be hosted and other important facts.
When and Where Will the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup Take Place?
The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 will be held in England, marking a major moment for women’s rugby. The tournament will start on August 22, 2025, and run through September 27, offering over a month of top-tier rugby action.
This event returns to England, which hosted the first Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991, and follows the success of the delayed 2021 World Cup (played in 2022).
Matches will be held across various cities in England, helping showcase the sport to different regions and build on the success of the Women’s Six Nations and other women’s sports events.
The dates for the 2025 tournament were chosen to ensure maximum visibility and fan engagement. With major partnerships already in place, including an official shaving sponsor, this event is a clear sign of the growing commercial success of women’s rugby.
Key Dates for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup
The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be a historic event in women’s rugby. World Rugby announced that England will host the tournament in December 2023, following the success of the 2021 World Cup, which was delayed to 2023 due to COVID-19.
The 2025 tournament will feature 16 teams, up from 12 in 2021, competing for the championship. It will begin in August 2025, and culminate with the Twickenham Stadium final.
This edition marks substantial growth since the first Women’s Rugby World Cup and reflects World Rugby’s commitment to hosting major events beyond 2031.
The tournament will feature the best teams in the world, including defending champions New Zealand and England, the host nation for the first time since 2010.
Host Cities and Venues for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be hosted in eight iconic stadiums across England.
Twickenham Stadium (London)
Twickenham is the home of rugby in England and one of the sport’s most iconic venues. With a massive capacity of 82,000, it will host both the opening match and the final of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
This stadium is known for its electric atmosphere during major rugby events and will be a fitting centerpiece for the tournament.
Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium (Brighton)
Located in Brighton, this stadium has hosted major sporting events, including a historic Rugby World Cup match in 2015. With a capacity of 31,800, it brings a lively atmosphere and passionate fans.
The stadium’s experience in hosting international events, including women’s sports, makes it a key venue for the 2025 tournament.
Ashton Gate (Bristol)
Ashton Gate, home to Bristol Bears, will host the semi-finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. With a capacity of 26,387, it is known for its energetic crowd and rugby culture.
Having previously hosted major rugby events, including the 1999 Rugby World Cup, it’s a historic venue that will provide a fantastic atmosphere for the tournament’s crucial matches.
Sandy Park (Exeter)
Exeter’s Sandy Park, with a capacity of 15,000, has been home to Exeter Chiefs for 18 years and is a key location for rugby in the region. Surrounded by scenic beaches, it brings together nature and sport.
The stadium has hosted previous World Cup matches and is known for its passionate fanbase, making it a prime spot for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Salford Community Stadium (Manchester)
Located in the northern part of England, Salford Community Stadium has a capacity of 11,404 and is home to Sale Sharks.
The stadium is one of the most northern venues for the 2025 tournament and has a strong rugby community. The venue’s location and enthusiastic supporters make it an exciting place for international rugby.
Franklin’s Gardens (Northampton)
Franklin’s Gardens has been a rugby landmark for nearly 150 years and is home to Northampton Saints. With a capacity of 15,148, this stadium is steeped in rugby tradition.
It will host several matches during the 2025 tournament, adding to its legacy as a key venue for rugby fans, particularly with its history of hosting major rugby moments.
Stadium of Light (Sunderland)
The Stadium of Light, with a capacity of 48,707, will kick off the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup with the opening match between England and the USA.
Known for being the home of Sunderland AFC, this venue has hosted major football events and music concerts. It will now bring the excitement of rugby to the north of England and give fans a memorable start to the tournament.
York Community Stadium (York)
Opened in 2020, York Community Stadium is a modern venue with a capacity of 8,510. It has already hosted the 2021 Women’s Rugby League World Cup and will be an important venue for the 2025 tournament.
Located in the heart of Yorkshire, it’s a venue that blends sport with local culture, offering a great experience for both players and fans.
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025: Match Schedule
This schedule provides the key dates and matchups for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, from the pool stages to the final match. Below is the full fixture list:
Group Stage Matches
| Date | Pool | Teams | Venue | Time | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 22 | Pool A | England vs. USA | Stadium of Light, Sunderland | 21:30 | |
| Aug 23 | Pool A | Australia vs. Samoa | Salford Community Stadium, Manchester | 14:00 | |
| Aug 23 | Pool B | Scotland vs. Wales | Salford Community Stadium, Manchester | 16:45 | |
| Aug 23 | Pool B | Canada vs. Fiji | York Community Stadium, York | 19:30 | |
| Aug 23 | Pool D | France vs. Italy | Sandy Park, Exeter | 22:15 | |
| Aug 24 | Pool C | Ireland vs. Japan | Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton | 14:00 | |
| Aug 24 | Pool D | South Africa vs. Brazil | Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton | 16:45 | |
| Aug 24 | Pool C | New Zealand vs. Spain | York Community Stadium, York | 19:30 |
Knockout Rounds
| Match | Teams | Venue | Date | Time | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QF1 | Winner Pool C vs. Runner-Up Pool D | Sandy Park, Exeter | September 13, 2025 | 14:30 |
|
| QF2 | Winner Pool B vs. Runner-Up Pool A | Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol | September 13, 2025 | 18:00 |
|
| QF3 | Winner Pool D vs. Runner-Up Pool C | Sandy Park, Exeter | September 14, 2025 | 14:30 |
|
| QF4 | Winner Pool A vs. Runner-Up Pool B | Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol | September 14, 2025 | 18:00 |
|
| SF1 | Winner QF1 vs. Winner QF2 | Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol | September 19, 2025 | 21:00 |
|
| SF2 | Winner QF3 vs. Winner QF4 | Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol | September 20, 2025 | 17:30 |
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| Bronze | Runner-Up SF1 vs. Runner-Up SF2 | Twickenham Stadium, London | September 27, 2025 | 14:30 |
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| Final | Winner SF1 vs. Winner SF2 | Twickenham Stadium, London | September 27, 2025 | 18:00 |
|
What Teams Are Competing in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025?
The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 will feature 16 teams. Australia, Canada, England, France, New Zealand, and the USA have already qualified based on their performance in the 2022 tournament.
They will be joined by Ireland, Italy, Japan, Scotland, South Africa, and Wales, who secured their spots through the WXV competition or regional qualifiers.
Qualified Teams for WRWC 2025
The qualified teams include New Zealand, the defending champions, and England, the host nation. Other teams like France and Canada earned their spots based on their performances in the 2022 tournament. Australia, the USA, Ireland, and Wales secured their places through regional qualifiers.
The 2025 tournament’s expanded 16-team format includes newcomers like Spain, showing the growing global interest in women’s rugby.
Teams to Watch in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup
As the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup approaches, key teams to watch include:
- England: The team to beat, with a strong and well-established rugby setup.
- New Zealand: The Black Ferns will look to defend their title with strong performances.
- France: They have been building momentum with impressive showings in recent years.
- Canada and USA: Both nations have invested heavily in their rugby programs and are rising contenders.
- Australia: Their success in rugby sevens may translate into a strong presence in rugby fifteens.
What Makes the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup Special?
The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup is a major milestone for the sport, with 16 teams competing for the first time.
Hosted in various venues across England, this tournament marks the largest investment in women’s rugby yet, with extensive media coverage and record attendance expected.
This competition also aligns with World Rugby’s push for equality, aiming to create more opportunities for female athletes and coaches.
With defending champions New Zealand going up against strong teams like England and France, this World Cup will highlight the incredible growth and progress of women’s rugby worldwide.
Evolution from Previous Women’s Rugby World Cups
The Women’s Rugby World Cup has come a long way since its first tournament in 1991. Starting with just 12 teams, the competition has grown in size, participation, and viewership.
The technical standards of play have also improved greatly, with modern players showing more skill and athleticism than in the past. The tournament has become more professional, with more sponsorship, media coverage, and specialized training programs.
Recent tournaments have featured more competitive matches, reflecting the global growth of women’s rugby, reaching beyond the traditional powerhouses.
Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups
This table compares the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups:
| Aspect | Men’s Rugby World Cup | Women’s Rugby World Cup |
|---|---|---|
| First Tournament | 1987 | 1991 |
| Number of Teams | 20 teams | 12 teams |
| Tournament Duration | 6 weeks | 4 weeks |
| Global Viewership | 857 million (2019) | Growing |
| Financial Scale | Larger | Smaller |
| Dominant Teams | New Zealand, South Africa, England | New Zealand, England, France |
| Growth Challenges | – | Media coverage, commercial support |
How Can Fans Get Tickets for the Rugby World Cup 2025?
Fans can secure tickets for the Rugby World Cup 2025 through several channels. The official tournament website will host the ticket ballot, which typically opens a year before the event.
Authorized ticket resellers, appointed by World Rugby, will also offer packages, including hospitality options.
Joining a national rugby union’s membership program often grants priority access during pre-sale windows. For those seeking premium experiences, official hospitality packages provide match tickets along with exclusive services.
Official Ticketing Service Provider Information
We offer secure transactions and verified tickets through our platform. With fraud protection and mobile ticket delivery, customers can rest assured their tickets are authentic. For any purchase inquiries, our dedicated customer support team is available.
Package Options for Women’s Rugby World Cup
Various exciting packages are available for fans. Premium packages include exclusive seating, player meet-and-greets, and official merchandise.
Standard packages offer match tickets and tournament programs, while group discounts and travel bundles make attending with friends easier.
Best Ways to Experience the Tournament as a Spectator
To get the most out of the tournament, arrive early for prime viewing spots. VIP packages provide top-notch seating, refreshments, and player interactions.
Download the official event app for real-time updates and augmented reality features. Don’t miss the fan zones, where interactive activities and big screens create a festive atmosphere.
How England’s Role as Host Impacts the Tournament
As the host of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, England plays a key role in boosting the tournament’s profile.
The excitement around famous venues like Twickenham, along with passionate home crowds, will drive high attendance and create a dynamic atmosphere.
Hosting also brings economic benefits through tourism and global exposure while supporting the growth of grassroots rugby.
England’s Preparation for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup
England is delivering a world-class event by upgrading infrastructure and implementing strategies to enhance fan experiences and attendance.
The Rugby Football Union is also focusing on the team’s preparation through specialized camps and competitive matches to ensure the English team is ready to compete on home soil.
International Rugby Community’s Response to England 2025
The global rugby community is excited about the expanded format, with more teams and matches than ever before.
Rugby organizations worldwide are investing in women’s rugby development, while the Rugby Football Union’s preparation has been praised for its thoroughness.
Legends of the sport emphasize how the tournament will inspire future generations and elevate the global profile of women’s rugby.
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Conclusion
The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup is set to be the largest and most exciting tournament yet, with 16 teams competing across various venues in England.
With top teams like New Zealand, England, and France, this event will highlight the growth of women’s rugby globally.
England is preparing for a historic tournament, showcasing the best rugby talent while inspiring future generations of players.
The increased media coverage and commercial success further demonstrate the rising importance of women’s rugby on the world stage. If you’re more interested in rugby, you can see all the Rugby World Cup winners by the year.
FAQs About Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 will be held in England from August 22 to September 27, 2025, across multiple venues including Sunderland, Brighton, Exeter, and London, with the final at Twickenham Stadium.
16 teams will compete, up from 12 in the 2021 tournament, reflecting the growth of women’s rugby globally.
England (host), New Zealand, Canada, and France have automatically qualified. Other teams will qualify through regional tournaments.
The tournament will have pool stages followed by knockout rounds. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the quarter-finals.
Ticket details will be available closer to the tournament. Fans can sign up for newsletters on the Rugby World Cup website for updates.
New Zealand’s Black Ferns are the defending champions, having won their sixth title in 2021 (played in 2022).
