This is about more than rugby!

Today marks the thrilling kickoff of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.

England might be the favourites, but with that tag comes the weight of expectation. Tournament rugby brings storms – moments of chaos and pressure that test even the best. To be crowned champions of the world, they’ll need to keep calm and deliver when it matters most. They have it within them… but time will tell.

However… let’s not forget, this isn’t just about England. There is no World Cup without the other 15 teams. Yes, there’s a big gap between the top nations and the rest when it comes to experience and investment, but that doesn’t make this any less special. Every single player who takes to the pitch over the next five weeks will be wearing their nation’s pride and carrying something bigger than themselves. They’ll be inspiring young girls everywhere, those who already love rugby, and those who don’t even know the game yet.

As a dad to three rugby-playing daughters, and as someone who coaches youth girls’ rugby, I get a ringside seat to see what this game gives to girls. Confidence. Belonging. Strength. Resilience. It’s a privilege to witness how the sport shapes them, both on and off the pitch. That’s why this World Cup feels so personal. It’s more than just a tournament, it’s a movement.

We’ll be taking in four games as a family during the competition, not just the giants of the women’s game, but some of the up-and-coming nations, too. I can’t wait to feel the buzz that only a World Cup can bring with all the colour, the songs, the raw emotion and shared passion for the game!

To all those world-class athletes who will light up the stadiums over the next five weeks: good luck. Win or lose, carry yourselves with pride. Remember, every kick, every tackle, every pass, every weaving run, every try is inspiring the future of women’s rugby, and women’s sport as a whole.

This is history in the making. And I’m so grateful to be here for it.