England Women’s Rugby World Champions: Analysis and Future of the Sport

The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup has come to an end, leaving an indelible legacy in the history of the sport.

England, meeting expectations, won their third title at Twickenham in front of almost 82,000 fans, setting a record for a women’s rugby XV match. The day, both on and off the field, was memorable. Canada, which partly funded its participation in the tournament through crowdfunding, achieved a milestone by reaching the final.

What does the future hold for women’s rugby and what’s next for the victorious “Red Roses”?

Following the conclusion of the tournament, crucial questions arise about the future of women’s rugby.

• English Domain: England establishes itself as the dominant force in the sport, with an impressive winning streak.
• Inspiring Stories: The tournament was full of moving stories, such as that of Meg Jones and the spirit of Samoa.
• Impact on Sport: The tournament has demonstrated the potential of women’s rugby, highlighting the importance of investment and support at all levels.

Are the English the most dominant force in the sport? The “Red Roses” have demonstrated absolute dominance, with only one defeat in their last 63 matches, and have now conquered the biggest prize in the sport. The Gloucester-Hartpury team is solidifying its dominance in the PWR, and in men’s rugby, the Springboks have won the last two World Cups. The current form of the “Red Roses” positions them as the most dominant force in rugby union. In terms of the gap between them and their competitors, the “Red Roses” are far ahead and are among the best we’ve seen. Rival nations are still developing, with some players still amateurs or semi-professionals, but if you are the “Red Roses”, you can only beat what’s in front of you. The way they managed expectations this year was also notable.

What will be remembered from this World Cup?

The fans and the atmosphere were key elements of the tournament. The noise and passion of the supporters, especially in the opening match of England against the United States, were etched in memory. Megan Jones’ press conference, before the final, was another highlight. The inspiring stories of Samoa, who represented their country despite having full-time jobs and facing difficult results, were also memorable. The 31-31 draw between Australia and the United States was a great match, with both teams fighting for a place in the final.

The atmosphere in the stadium was exceptional, with verbal exchanges between the fans, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

What is the future of women’s rugby?

The tournament has demonstrated the potential of women’s rugby, highlighting the importance of investment and support at all levels. England, with solid financial backing, has achieved success, but other teams need to catch up. This requires commercial investment, more frequent competitive matches, and investment from the grassroots.

It is crucial to learn from women’s football and maintain public interest. Fans should support the sport, and authorities should facilitate access to matches. Unions should invest in women’s programs to achieve results, as England has done. This is a crucial moment for the sport, and it is essential that it is followed up. The host nations, as well as New Zealand and Australia, run the risk of the gap between them and England widening if they do not invest in national programs and their respective competitions.

What will happen in 2029?

England is likely to remain the favorite, given its age profile and the infrastructure it possesses to maintain its dominance. Other nations are expected to improve, such as Canada, which has achieved notable results despite its budgetary limitations. The Black Ferns will also seek to improve, and Australia will seek to stand out as host.

The pressure now falls on Rugby Australia to be a success on and off the field in four years. They desperately need to get the backing of the Australian public and that comes from winning. They also need as many home tests as possible and to build their fanbase.

In the field, it won’t be long before they set their sights on winning again. With the way things are at the moment, you wouldn’t bet against it.