York has been announced as one of the eight host cities for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup — the LNER Community Stadium will be one of the venues to host England’s bid to reclaim the trophy, after finishing as runners up in both 2021 and 2017.
The announcement comes just two days after England’s Women’s team were left heartbroken by defeat in the final of the football world cup, reflecting how comfortably England sit at the top table of women’s sport. With a home crowd behind them, the Red Roses will be confident of going one better and securing victory at the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
This is the tenth edition of the tournament and is set to be the biggest yet, as the number of participating teams is increasing from 12 to 16 for 2025 — so residents can be sure to see the city come life. In 2021, New Zealand saw more than 140,000 fans attending games. It’s expected that those attendance figures will be even bigger for 2025, with the flagship 83,000-seat Twickenham stadium announced as the venue for the final.
Fans will be treated to the very best of the world’s talent alongside local stars like Kirkbymoorside’s Tatyana Heard — who is sure to receive the warmest of receptions at the LNER stadium.
Councillor Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council said: “I want to thank all the partners involved in our successful bid to host the Women’s Rugby Union World Cup. It is fantastic that once again York will play host to a world cup, with world-class female athletes living and playing in the city for a number of weeks.
We see time and time again the impact sport can have on people’s lives. This is demonstrated by the legacy of the Rugby League World Cup held in the city last year, and also the recent successes of the Lionesses in inspiring a new generation. Sport brings people together and can be great for our physical and mental wellbeing. We hope this tournament is a catalyst for increased participation at any of our fantastic community clubs.”
The full list of host venues is:
• 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
• Sunderland – Stadium of Light
• York – York Community Stadium
For more details about York’s role as a host city and for updated ticket information head to www.rugbyworldcup.com/2025.
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