Women's Rugby World Cup 2025: A Transformative Event for Sport and Society

The Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 in England has set a new standard for sporting events and women's empowerment. With record-breaking attendance and significant economic impact, it has not just entertained but catalyzed change across communities.

Unprecedented Attendance and Community Engagement

Boasting over 444,000 tickets sold, the tournament marked itself as the most attended Women's Rugby World Cup in history, tripling the turnout of its predecessor. The final match at Twickenham drew an impressive 81,885 fans, establishing a world record for a women's rugby match and attesting to the growing popularity of the sport. This surge in spectatorship was bolstered by initiatives that engaged local communities and fostered a sense of belonging.

Economic Uplift and Local Benefits

The event delivered a remarkable £294.7 million economic impact across host cities, which signifies not just increased visitor spending but also enhanced civic pride. Notably, more than 80% of this impact was felt outside of London, showing how major sporting events can benefit lesser-known areas and promote regional growth.

A Powerful Legacy for Women and Girls

The tournament's social initiatives, encapsulated in the 'Where We Belong' campaign, reached new heights by emphasizing inclusion and body confidence. An inspiring 75% of young women surveyed reported feeling more motivated to engage in physical activities after attending the event. This awareness-raising contributes significantly to the promotion of women’s health and well-being.

The Future of Women's Rugby: A Model for Growth

The findings from the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and the accompanying Impact Beyond 2025 report signal a commitment to sustaining this momentum. With over 35,500 teenage girls introduced to rugby, and an increase in female leadership across the sport, the future remains bright. World Rugby aims to build upon these successes to ensure this groundbreaking moment translates into lasting change in women's sport globally.

As World Rugby continues to invest in events and initiatives that promote women’s participation, the legacy of Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of the potential to reshape perceptions, grow audiences, and inspire future generations.