The Women’s Rugby World Cup is shattering records as demand reaches unprecedented levels. Following the news of 375,000 tickets sold last week, organizers have now announced that over 400,000 have been sold. With the tournament approaching a complete sellout of its estimated 470,000 available tickets, the final at Twickenham is already sold out, with a record-breaking crowd of 82,000 expected to make it the most attended women’s rugby match in history.
The incredible demand is evident across the board. The tournament’s opening match between England and the USA set a new single-match RWC record with 42,723 fans in attendance, making it the biggest-ever women’s RWC match. Overall, more than 85,000 fans attended the opening eight group games, and every stadium was packed, creating an electric atmosphere. The excitement is not limited to in-person attendance, with the official RWC website receiving over 1 million hits.
On television, viewership is also hitting new highs, with over 6 million viewers across the UK and France watching the opening matches and setting new national records for women’s rugby. In 2022, the entire tournament saw only 3.7 million views.
To put this into perspective, the growth is staggering. The final of the 2014 World Cup in France had an attendance of 20,000. In 2017, the final in Ireland was attended by 17,115. That number more than doubled at the 2021 final in New Zealand, which saw 42,579 fans. We are seeing a sport grow by leaps and bounds with each event.
| Event Final | Attendance |
|---|---|
| Men’s Rugby World Cup | |
| 2023 (France) | 80,065 |
| 2019 (Japan) | 70,103 |
| 2015 (England) | 80,125 |
| 2011 (New Zealand) | 61,079 |
| 2007 (France) | 80,430 |
| 2003 (Australia) | 82,957 |
| 1999 (Wales) | 72,500 |
| Women’s Rugby World Cup | |
| 2025 (England) | >82,000 (Sold Out) |
| 2021 (New Zealand) | 42,579 |
| 2017 (Ireland) | 17,115 |
| 2014 (France) | 20,000 |
| 2010 (England) | 13,253 |
| 2006 (Canada) | 5,500 |
The excitement extends to the teams and coaches as well. A record 23 women coaches are working at the tournament, which is more than double the number at the last World Cup. Stars are also making their presence felt. Ilona Maher from the USA is lighting up social media, and Canada’s McKinley Hunt said her team is ready to make a name for themselves. Brazil is bringing the vibes on their debut, and Spain is determined to inspire a new generation back home.
For those of us who have followed the women’s game for years, this level of success is not a surprise. The growth has been constant and hard-fought, driven by the talent and dedication of players and the loyal support of fans. This is more than just a moment; it is a culmination of a movement that is here to stay.
