Pride, Passion, and Community: Women's Rugby World Cup in Sunderland
Sunderland came alive on Friday 22 August as the Women’s Rugby World Cup kicked off in style at the Stadium of Light. England’s Red Roses launched their campaign with a stunning 69–7 victory over the USA.
Cheered on by a record-breaking crowd of...
The match was more than a game, it was a landmark moment for Sunderland and for women’s rugby. To add to the excitement, Sunderland hosted three days of celebrations in Keel Square, where the Fan Village created a vibrant festival atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
The celebrations began on Thursday 21 August, with the Fan Village showcasing a line-up of female-led live music organised by Sunderland Music City.
And that wasn't all, BBC One’s The One Show broadcast live from Keel Square, joined by rugby stars Jodie Ounsley (aka Fury from BBC’s Gladiators), Ugo Monye and Maggie Alphonsi, who presented a special live segment as the excitement built.
On match day, the Fan Village was alive with food, drink and plenty of rugby-themed activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. From midday, tribute acts including Rock DJ, Mac Busted, Re-Take That, and Royal Rhapsody entertained thousands of fans.
From Keel Square, a colourful community parade of 500 performers led crowds towards the Stadium of Light, with supporters also seizing the chance to be among the first to walk across the new Keel Crossing, which opened for one day only, especially for the occasion.
Not forgetting global pop star Anne-Marie who wowed the crowd.
For one young fan in particular, the Rugby World Cup opening in Sunderland was more than just an unforgettable match, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Leon O’Connor Ahmadi, winner of the 2025 Sunderland Young Achievers’ Award, was given exclusive backstage access at the Stadium of Light, including a behind-the-scenes tour, a walk through the players’ tunnel, and a sneak preview of Anne-Marie’s rehearsal before her big performance.
Ending the day by lighting up Sunderland in celebration
Thank you to everyone who made this weekend happen, and to all who joined us, whether from Sunderland or further afield. As Andy Bull wrote in The Guardian, "It was a hell of a way to start a World Cup."
And not to forget a milestone moment for Sunderland...
The temporary opening of the new pedestrian footbridge, Keel Crossing, that connects the city to the stadium, welcomed fans to the Stadium of Light in style on Friday.
George Clarke said: "What an honour to cross the new pedestrian bridge, Keel Crossing, in my hometown of Sunderland. The bridge is a massive game changer for the city and a stunning addition to the Wear. Its very first job was helping Rugby World Cup fans get across to the Stadium of Light for England vs USA, how brilliant is that? Sunderland has gone from strength to strength in recent years and this is another fantastic step forward. Everyone involved should feel incredibly proud"
Next up in Sunderland...
Sunderland Restaurant Week
Ready to sink your teeth into one of the most exciting events on the city calendar?
Sunderland Restaurant Week is back on the menu this September!
Dates: Saturday 6 - Sunday 14 September 2025.
