Brighton is set to host a sold-out weekend of women's rugby World Cup matches, with England facing Australia on Saturday and New Zealand taking on Ireland on Sunday. The event, which has drawn significant attention, is being celebrated not just for the sport but for its inclusive atmosphere, featuring fanzones, free concerts, and fireworks.
Tournament director Sarah Massey emphasised the goal of using the World Cup as a platform for women and under-represented groups. The executive team is all-female, as are the artists behind the opening TV credits, the DJs, and the groundstaff at the final. This commitment to diversity reflects the authentic nature of women's rugby, which offers a greater sense of belonging than many other sports.
World Rugby is releasing a short film called Where We Belong, directed by the duo Pip + Lib, to highlight the sport's inclusivity. The film showcases three women's teams and captures the transformative power of rugby. Lib noted that the sport attracts a wide range of players, from shy teenagers to those seeking an outlet for their strength and aggression.
The women's game has long been ahead of the men's in LGBTQ+ representation, providing a welcoming environment for all. As Lib observed, women's rugby celebrates aspects of identity that society often overlooks, making it a space where everyone can find a place to belong.
