What's Happening?
Twickenham Stoop, the home stadium of Harlequins, is set to host the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) final for the 2025-26 season. This marks the first time in a decade that the stadium will host the event. The announcement follows last season's final hosted by Saracens at StoneX Stadium, where Gloucester-Hartpury emerged victorious. Harlequins CEO Laurie Dalrymple expressed excitement about hosting the event, emphasizing the significance of Twickenham as a hub for women's rugby, especially with the women's World Cup final also taking place nearby. The PWR final is scheduled for June 28, 2026, and aims to build on the record attendance set in 2025.
Why It's Important?
Hosting the PWR final at Twickenham Stoop underscores the growing prominence of women's rugby in the UK and globally. It reflects the increasing investment and interest in women's sports, which can lead to greater visibility and support for female athletes. The event is expected to draw significant attention, potentially boosting attendance and engagement with women's rugby. This move aligns with broader efforts to promote gender equality in sports and provide platforms for women athletes to showcase their talents on major stages.
What's Next?
The focus will be on preparations for the 2026 PWR final, with Harlequins and other stakeholders working to ensure a successful event. Efforts will likely include marketing campaigns to maximize attendance and engagement. The women's World Cup later this year is expected to generate excitement and momentum leading up to the PWR final. Stakeholders will aim to capitalize on this enthusiasm to further elevate the profile of women's rugby.