Sunderland selected as Women's Rugby World Cup host city
World Rugby and the RFU announce The Stadium of Light will be one of 8 UK locations for the competition in 2025
Last updated 22nd Aug 2023
Sunderland has been announced as one of 8 cities to host events for the Women's Rugby World Cup, in 2025.
World Rugby and the RFU, with support from the UK Government, have confirmed that the venues which will host the event, taking place between August 22 and September 27th 2025.
Which Stadiums will welcome the tournament?
· 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
The 10th edition of the women’s global Rugby Union tournament – sees the number of teams increased from 12 to 16 as women’s participation accelerates around the globe.
Support across the North East
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.”
Canada, England, France and New Zealand have already qualified for Rugby World Cup 2025 after finishing in the top four of RWC 2021.
Remaining positions will be filled via World Rugby’s new women’s international 15s tournament, WXV, and regional competitions in 2024.
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.”
Red Rose approval
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.
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.”