Red Roses Celebrate World Cup Triumph and Record-Breaking Crowds

The Red Roses secured a resounding victory in the Rugby World Cup, defeating Canada 33-13, and further solidified their status in women’s rugby with a remarkable 33-Test winning streak. This triumph was celebrated in front of a record crowd of 81,885 spectators at Twickenham, setting a new benchmark for attendance at both women’s rugby matches and Rugby World Cup events.

The attendance at Twickenham not only surpassed the previous record of 42,723 set just weeks earlier during England’s opening match against the USA but also marked the second-highest attendance for any Rugby World Cup Final, regardless of gender. The semi-finals held at Ashton Gate in Bristol also drew impressive crowds, with over 50,000 fans attending the two matches.

This surge in interest has had a positive impact on the local economy, particularly in Bristol, where the local Hoteliers Association reported over 90 percent occupancy during the tournament weekends, along with a revenue increase between 20-30 percent. Overall, the Women’s Rugby World Cup (WRWC) sold over 440,000 tickets, exceeding the initial target of 350,000 by nearly 100,000 tickets.

Building on a Historic Summer for Women’s Sport

The successful campaign of the Red Roses follows a summer of triumphs for women’s sports in England, including the Lionesses winning the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 in Switzerland. As the country anticipates the Women’s Cricket World Cup, where England aims for a fifth title, the potential for a triad of global successes is tantalizing.

Sarah Massey, managing director of Rugby World Cup 2025, highlighted the event as “a generational moment,” noting that the high attendance figures exceeded expectations. She emphasized the upward trajectory of women’s rugby, reflecting a growing interest and support for the sport.

With the euphoria of victory, the focus now shifts to sustainability and growth within women’s rugby. The term ‘legacy’ is often invoked in discussions following significant sporting events, though its meaning can be ambiguous. It encompasses various factors such as infrastructure development, increased participation, and financial benefits. Historical examples, such as the post-2012 London Olympics and the football World Cups in South Africa and Brazil, demonstrate the complexity of translating success into lasting impact.

Strategies for Sustainable Growth in Women’s Rugby

In anticipation of potential pitfalls, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) has implemented proactive measures to ensure the growth of women’s rugby. Currently, there are approximately 60,000 registered female players in England, with a goal to reach 100,000 in the coming years. To support this ambition, the RFU allocates £15 million annually for women’s rugby development.

An initiative titled Impact ’25, which began in 2022, aims to sustain growth in the women’s game and was established before the Red Roses’ World Cup success. It includes funding from the UK Government and is designed to bolster grassroots participation across the UK and Ireland.

Alex Teasdale, RFU Executive Director of Women’s Game, stated, “We can really see the growth across all five of our key focus areas – from coaching and officiating to playing and volunteering.” This investment demonstrates the RFU’s commitment to enhancing the rugby experience for women and girls.

The competitive landscape of women’s rugby is evolving, with a hope that nations such as New Zealand, France, and Canada will continue to challenge England’s dominance. The RFU recognizes that fostering competitiveness is essential for the sport’s future and acknowledges the need for collaboration with other unions, including Welsh Rugby Union, Scottish Rugby Union, and Irish Rugby Football Union.

Despite challenges, including recent issues of governance within the Welsh Rugby Union, the overarching goal remains to create an inclusive environment where girls and women can thrive in the sport.

The upcoming launch of the new Women’s and Girls Strategy by the RFU will further build upon the groundwork laid by Impact ’25, ensuring that the success of the Red Roses translates into sustainable growth for the future.

As the new club season approaches, excitement builds for the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) season, kicking off on the weekend of October 24-26, 2023. England’s stars, along with international players, are set to take the field, aiming to attract fans who celebrated the World Cup victory to support women’s club rugby.

The challenge ahead lies in differentiating women’s rugby in a crowded sporting marketplace, where football remains the dominant sport in England. Engaging the audience who flocked to Twickenham will be vital for the future growth of women’s rugby.

In reflection, Meg Jones, a member of the victorious Red Roses team, encapsulated the spirit of women’s sport, stating, “We’re leading with compassion, leading with vulnerability and leading with love.” This sentiment resonates as the sport embarks on its next chapter, aiming to build on its historic triumphs and foster a thriving future for women’s rugby.