Sunderland selected as Women’s Rugby World Cup host city

Sunderland has been announced as the North East’s host city for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. The Stadium of Light is one of eight stadia selected to host the biggest ever celebration of women’s rugby.

World Rugby and the RFU, with support from the UK Government, have confirmed that the event will take place between August 22 and September 27 2025, and has unveiled the host cities and venues that will stage matches in the global contest, with each venue expected to attract supporters from around the world.

The final eight venues are: Sunderland – Stadium of Light Brighton and Hove – Brighton and Hove Albion Stadium Bristol – Ashton Gate Exeter – Sandy Park London – Twickenham Stadium Manchester – Salford Community Stadium Northampton – Franklin’s Gardens York – York Community Stadium

Excitement is building for the event the 10th edition of the women’s pinnacle global tournament which will work to new standards for 2025 with the number of teams increased from 12 to 16 as women’s participation accelerates around the globe.

Culminating in the Rugby World Cup Final on September 27 2025, the countrywide format provides an unparalleled opportunity to see, engage with and support the stars of the women’s game.

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “This is a fantastic announcement that will be welcomed by sports fans across the region. The city of Sunderland and the Stadium of Light will be once again seen on the world stage hosting a World Cup.

“Women’s rugby like women’s sport in general is growing in popularity, so to be able to support the England International Team at the Stadium of Light is an opportunity we know people locally will enjoy, and we’re looking forward to welcoming fans from across the world to Sunderland.”

Following a competitive selection process, the final roster of host cities and venues reflects the tournament’s core mission of growing the sport, taking rugby across the country and engaging with diverse communities. All will provide a family-focused festival of rugby.

Sunderland AFC’s chief operating officer, Steve Davison, added: “Following an exceptional summer of events, including sell-out shows from global superstars Beyonce and P!NK, it is with immense pride that the City of Sunderland is announced as the host city for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

“The Stadium of Light continues to cement itself as the premier destination for elite women’s sport, with our World Cup finalist Lionesses’ also celebrating their homecoming on Wearside on September 22. The RWC 2025 is the latest milestone that we hope continues to forge a legacy that empowers and inspires all within our regional community for many years to come.”

Rugby World Cup 2021 smashed records across the board with more than 150,000 fans attending across the tournament, 1.8 million viewers on average in England and New Zealand tuned into the final with more than 156 million video views on social media. Powerful personalities were born, and a new generation of accessible and relatable role models championed change.

The tournament is the most accessible women’s Rugby World Cup ever and will expand the reach of the game across the five-week period by bringing the world’s best players to cities right around England.

Sarah Hunter, former Red Rose’s Captain and England Women’s Transition Coach, said: “Having grown up in the North East, I know there is a great enthusiasm for rugby across the region. To bring the 2025 Rugby World Cup to Sunderland will mean so much to so many people, young and old.

“Everyone is sport mad in the North East and no matter the occasion, they know how to create an amazing atmosphere for sporting occasions. I’m sure everyone will fully buy in and get right behind the tournament. The Stadium of Light is an incredible venue. It will no doubt provide the perfect backdrop for some fantastic rugby which we hope will inspire the next generation to pick up a rugby ball.”

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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