Sunderland to Host England’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Quest
In a thrilling announcement, it was revealed that the England national rugby union team, the Red Roses, will kick off their quest for a third Women’s Rugby World Cup title at the 49,000-capacity Stadium of Light in Sunderland on August 22, 2025. This news has generated immense excitement, particularly for North-East native and England’s most-capped women’s player, Sarah Hunter.
Hunter, who is currently the Red Roses’ transition coach, expressed her passion for bringing rugby to the North East, stating that the decision to host the opening match in Sunderland had made “the hairs on the back of [her] neck stand up.” Growing up just a few miles north of Sunderland in North Shields, Hunter’s rugby journey began as a junior at Newcastle Falcons, and she recalled having to travel all the way to London as a nine-year-old to watch international rugby, making the choice to host the tournament opener in the region even more meaningful.
“By doing that and taking it around England, I think they’re living up to that and I think it’s great for those surrounding areas to inspire that next generation,” Hunter said, emphasizing the importance of growing the game and providing opportunities for young girls and boys to get involved in rugby.
The organizing committee for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has taken learnings from other recent major events held in England, such as the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, to ensure the tournament has the biggest impact possible. Managing Director Sarah Massey emphasized the importance of visibility, stating, “If you can’t see it, you can’t be it,” and highlighting the inspirational effect of role models like the Lionesses.
With Canada, England, France, and New Zealand already qualified for the tournament after finishing in the top four at the 2021 Rugby World Cup, the remaining positions will be filled through the WXV and regional competitions in 2024. The commercial demand for the event continues to grow, with Mastercard, Capgemini, Gallagher, and Mitsubishi Electric already on board as official partners for England 2025.
Rugby enthusiasts can stay up-to-date with the latest news and ticketing information by registering on the official website.
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