Full Breakdown
Surge in Popularity for Women's Rugby Ahead of 2026 Six Nations
4/10/2026, 11:09:50 PM
Record-Breaking Attendance and Viewership
The upcoming 2026 Women's Six Nations is poised to attract unprecedented attention, building on the momentum generated by the successful 2025 Rugby World Cup. Following England's victory over Canada in the final, which drew a record crowd of 81,885 at Allianz Stadium, the number of supporters for women's rugby in the UK surged from 7.94 million to 13.21 million, according to research commissioned by BBC Sport. This match not only set attendance records but also became the most-watched women's rugby match in UK history, with a peak audience of 5.8 million viewers.
The Women's Six Nations is expected to be the largest yet, with pre-tournament ticket sales already surpassing previous records. England's opener against Ireland is anticipated to draw over 75,000 fans, eclipsing the previous record of 58,498 set during the Grand Slam decider between England and France in 2023. Scotland's match against England at Murrayfield is also expected to break attendance records, with over 25,000 tickets sold, far exceeding Scotland women's previous record of 7,774.
Key Players to Watch
As the tournament approaches, several standout players are expected to make significant impacts. England's Ellie Kildunne, named the 2024 World Rugby Women’s 15s player of the year, is known for her dynamic play, having scored four tries in the 2025 tournament. France's Morgane Bourgeois, a proficient goal kicker, dominated the scoring charts in the last Six Nations with 73 points. Ireland's Erin King, the newly appointed captain, is recognized for her potential despite limited experience, having previously excelled in the Sevens circuit. Italy's Aura Muzzo and Scotland's Francesca McGhie are also highlighted for their impressive performances in recent competitions.
Official Statements & Responses
Alex Teasdale, director of women's rugby at the Rugby Football Union, emphasized the importance of maintaining fan engagement, stating, "The role of the Red Roses as ambassadors has helped sustain some of that strong buy-in." He acknowledged the challenges of keeping audiences engaged, noting that "you have to work hard to give fans a brilliant experience so they want to keep coming back."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive outlook, there are concerns regarding the sustainability of this growth. Critics argue that while attendance and viewership numbers are rising, maintaining this interest will require continuous effort and innovation in the sport. The challenge remains to ensure that the quality of play matches the increasing demand for tickets and viewership.
What's Next
The 2026 Women's Six Nations is set to kick off with France hosting Italy, followed by England welcoming Ireland at Allianz Twickenham. The tournament promises to be a showcase of talent and competitive spirit, with expectations high for both attendance and performance on the field.
