Calls for women's rugby to be made more accessible ahead of 2027 Women’s Lions Tour
There are growing calls to improve the accessibility of women's rugby in the UK as the sport prepares for the 2027 Women’s Lions Tour.
A recent study commissioned by Royal London highlights the need for greater accessibility in women's rugby, revealing that while the sport ranks as the third most accessible for women, only one-third perceive it to be so in their local areas. The findings indicate that 32% of women believe rugby is easily accessible to them, trailing behind football and netball but outperforming other team sports like hockey and cricket in terms of accessibility.
Despite this progress, the report suggests that there is still considerable work to be done to expand participation in women's rugby. With the Red Roses having achieved significant acclaim by winning the World Cup on home soil and the upcoming 2027 Women’s Lions Tour anticipated to bring further attention, advocates are urging for initiatives that will enhance the experience and increase participation among women. This is seen as crucial for harnessing the momentum the sport has garnered recently.
The discussion surrounding accessibility also reflects broader societal changes and an increasing emphasis on gender equality in sports. As women's rugby continues to grow, ensuring that opportunities and resources are equally available is essential for sustaining its development and further promoting female athletes. The upcoming events may serve as a pivotal point in reinforcing the importance of inclusivity within the sport.