England’s women’s rugby team, the Red Roses, were formally welcomed by the Princess of Wales at Windsor Castle in a special reception to celebrate their triumph at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup. The world-champion squad visited the historic royal residence to mark their achievement in winning the tournament on home soil, where they beat Canada 33-13 in front of a sell-out crowd at Twickenham Stadium.
As patron of the Rugby Football Union, the Princess of Wales hosted the Red Roses, acknowledging the team’s success and the inspiration they provide to a new generation of rugby players across the UK. Wearing a striking red outfit in homage to the team’s “Red Roses” nickname, she spoke warmly with players and staff, congratulating them on a victory that has boosted the profile of women’s sport nationally.
The event included the team showing off their World Cup trophy and sharing stories from their record-breaking campaign. The Princess emphasised that sport should be accessible to all children, encouraging girls and boys alike to pursue their athletic interests without being “pigeonholed”. Her remarks underscored the growing importance of women’s rugby within the UK’s sporting landscape.
This reception follows the team’s high-profile success in September, when supporters packed Twickenham and millions tuned in across the UK to watch the final. The Red Roses’ World Cup win not only cemented their status in international rugby but also helped elevate the visibility of women’s sport at all levels, inspiring fans, young athletes and communities throughout the country.
Overall, the royal recognition reflects the wider cultural impact of the team’s achievement and the increasing support for women’s rugby in the UK
