World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin has predicted that the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be a "breakthrough moment" for the sport as the countdown to the tournament in England continues. With over 220,000 tickets already sold, it is set to be the best-attended women’s Rugby World Cup to date.

The event is generating significant excitement, fueled by the participation of stars like Ellie Kildunne, Sophie de Goede, and potentially social media sensation Ilona Maher, who could bring a new wave of fans to the sport. Gilpin commented, "This is definitely the story that we don't want to stop talking about and hopefully no one wants to stop talking about and we certainly shouldn't stop talking about." He emphasized the transformative potential of the tournament, not just for women's rugby but for the sport as a whole, aiming to attract a "younger, more inclusive, more vibrant and definitely more family-oriented audience."

The tournament kicks off on August 22, 2025, with a much-anticipated match between previous winners England and the USA at Sunderland's Stadium of Light. England, dreaming of their third title, will host the final at Twickenham Stadium on September 27. Sarah Massey, the Managing Director of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, expressed confidence in selling out the final, while also noting the high demand for tickets to the opening match, with more than half the seats already taken during the pre-sale phase.

The excitement is further amplified by the news that some of the biggest names from rugby sevens, including Olympic bronze medallist Ilona Maher, Charlotte Caslick, and Maddison Levi, are transitioning to 15s to compete in the World Cup. Maher will start her journey with Bristol Bears, aiming to secure a spot in the USA squad. Gilpin highlighted Levi's transition, calling her "an absolute rock star of women's rugby," pointing to the global anticipation and interest in the tournament.

This Women's Rugby World Cup is not just a sporting event but a cultural moment, expected to inspire a new generation of fans and participants in rugby, showcasing the sport's growth and its appeal to a broader, more diverse audience.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]