Brighton & Hove is marking 50 days to go until the start of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 with a free, family-friendly event this Saturday, July 5, on Hove Lawns.
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Running from 1 to 3pm, Strive 25 will offer a lively afternoon of non-contact rugby activities open to all ages and abilities. The event, organised with support from local rugby clubs, is designed to celebrate the countdown to the tournament and encourage wider participation in the sport, especially among women and girls.
Rugby fans will also have the chance to meet special guests, including England and Saracens winger Jess Breach and Harlequins player Emma Swords, who will be attending to show their support and inspire the next generation of players.
No booking is needed – just turn up and get involved.
Council Leader Bella Sankey said: “Since Brighton & Hove was announced as a host city, we’ve seen a huge surge in interest in women’s rugby. Saturday’s event is all about building on that excitement and giving people the chance to try something new in a fun, welcoming environment.”
A key focus of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Impact Programme is tackling the drop-off in sport among teenage girls. National statistics show that one in three girls stop playing sport during their teens, often due to issues with confidence, accessibility, or not feeling included in traditional sporting spaces.
“As a council, we’re committed to changing that,” added Cllr Sankey. “We’re delivering inclusive, supportive sports sessions across the city, in schools, parks and community centres, because we know the benefits of physical activity stretch far beyond the pitch. It boosts confidence, supports mental health, and helps build lasting friendships.”
Brighton & Hove will host two major matches at Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium: England vs Australia on September 6, and Ireland vs New Zealand on September 7. Fans can also soak up the atmosphere at an official fan zone in Victoria Gardens, with entertainment and activities throughout the tournament.
Although the official 50-day countdown falls on Thursday, July 3, the Hove Lawns celebration has been scheduled for the weekend to ensure as many people as possible can attend.
For more on what’s happening locally around the Women’s Rugby World Cup, visit the Brighton & Hove City Council website.
