International rugby could return to Brighton & Hove in 2025 as councillors consider whether to progress a bid to become a host city for the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which is to take place in England over a six-week period during August, September and October 2025.
According to Brighton & Hove City Council, a successful bid would “see world class cup rugby teams welcomed to the Amex Stadium for a second time, enhancing Brighton & Hove’s reputation as a major sporting city.”
Brighton & Hove was one of the host cities for the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2015 with matches including the legendary South Africa/Japan game.
Last year, the city welcomed the Lionesses to Brighton & Hove on their journey to becoming UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 champions.
Following these successful sporting events, council officers are working with Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club to develop a bid to become a host city for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.
Initial discussions with World Rugby and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) through Rugby World Cup (England 2025) Limited (RWCL) have already taken place.
At a meeting of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities and Culture Committee on January 12, councillors will decide whether to continue with the selection process. The successful host cities will be announced in early 2023.
Councillor Martin Osborne, co-chair of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities and Culture Committee, said: “We know, from hosting previous events, that major sporting tournaments can bring huge benefits to host cities, from attracting visitors and boosting the economy to providing opportunities for residents and leaving a lasting legacy.
“We look forward to finding out more about bidding to become a 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup host city, and how we can build on our growing reputation as a major sporting city.”
