The growth of women's rugby is not just a trend, it's a testament to a shift in the sporting landscape, and nowhere is this more evident than in the progression of the Women's Rugby World Cup. The 2025 tournament, hosted in England, is poised to eclipse its predecessor in New Zealand in every measurable way, showcasing how the sport is gaining momentum.
The 2021 World Cup (played in 2022 due to Covid) in New Zealand was a landmark event. The final between the Black Ferns and the Red Roses captivated the world, drawing a record-breaking crowd of 42,579, and 1.7 million TV viewers. This tournament demonstrated a clear and growing appetite for the women's game.

However, the 2025 World Cup is already rewriting the record books. So why should you care?

2025 Record-Breaking Crowds

The 2025 tournament has been expanded to 16 teams, up from the 12 that competed in 2021. This expansion is a reflection of the sport's global growth and provides more opportunities for nations to compete on the world stage.

This growth is most visible in ticket sales and attendance. The 2021 tournament sold over 150,000 tickets, which was a record at the time. The 2025 World Cup has already surpassed that total by a huge margin, with over 375,000 tickets sold before the tournament even began. The final at Twickenham Stadium in London is already a complete sellout, with 82,000 fans expected to attend. This will not only be a record for a women's rugby match but also a new benchmark for women's sport in the UK. The opening match between England and the USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland also set a new record for a Women's Rugby World Cup opening game, with an attendance of 42,723.

But there’s still room to grow. Canada’s women’s rugby team raised $1M through crowdfunding just to be able to compete, and they are now World Cup Finalists. Similarly, Samoa was able to compete through fundraising from individual players and the team as a whole, seeking support from their communities and the wider public.

Growth in Guernsey

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is a reflection of a grassroots revolution that is empowering clubs and communities everywhere. We might be a small team in a small island, but the Ladies' growth is a perfect example of this global trend in action.

The momentum is impacting every local pitch, inspiring a new generation of players. For the Guernsey Raiders Ladies, the team's growth isn't just about a few new faces, it's about a fundamental shift in perception and a newfound confidence in the sport's future.

This season alone, the Raiders Ladies kicked off their league campaign with five debuts in their very first game. Pre-season saw a peak in members, with over 50 Ladies signed up to play women’s rugby. These statistics are more than just a number. It shows that the team's commitment to developing talent is working, attracting women who are seeing the sport's potential and want to be a part of its exciting future.

So, when you see the staggering numbers from the 2025 World Cup, remember that they are linked to the stories of teams like us. Each new player, each successful debut, and each new fan is a piece of a global jigsaw puzzle, all contributing to a picture of a sport that is becoming a major force. The future of women's rugby is here, and we're proud to be a part of it.

Whether it’s coming down to play, coming down to watch, or following our season, play your part in the growth of women’s rugby.