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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Will Macpherson

England awarded women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025 with USA set to host tournaments for first time

England are the current reigning women’s Six Nations Grand Slam champions

(Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

The allocations for the next cycle of men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups have been confirmed, with the USA set to host both editions for the first time.

The women’s tournament takes place in New Zealand later this year, before England host in 2025, Australia in 2029 and the USA in 2033. On the men’s side, next year’s tournament in France is followed by Australia in 2027 and the USA in 2031.

World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: “We have approved three exceptional RWC host nations – England, Australia and USA – providing unprecedented certainty and an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate the growth and impact of rugby globally. It is great for rugby, for fans and for the host nations.

“The confirmation of host locations is supported by a new partnership approach to event delivery, that will power long-term, sustainable development, including in the USA and across the women’s game, enabling the sport to realise its global potential on and off the field, driving significant social and economic benefits for host nations.

“Today is a landmark moment for the sport, and an exciting development for fans. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making this dream a reality as we look to deliver a truly global sport for all.”

Sue Day, who captained England as well as representing them at three World Cups and is now the RFU’s COO and CFO, was delighted with the news that her home nation would be hosting the women’s tournament again.

“We are thrilled to be hosting Rugby World Cup 2025, it is going to be incredible,” she said. “We would like to thank Government for their support in making this possible. Working closely with Government, UK Sport, Sport England and World Rugby together we will create a lasting legacy for women’s rugby in England, the UK and across the world, both in terms of attracting more people to play and attracting new fans.

“As we have seen from other home World Cups in cricket, hockey and netball a Rugby World Cup will further advance all women’s sport. The tournament will also deliver significant economic benefits right across the country. I can only imagine how proud we will be and how special it will feel to host the final at Twickenham.”

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