World Cup fever builds in Salford as Women’s Rugby Trophy arrives ahead of '25 tournament

Helen Clarke

Salford was alive with excitement on Friday 30th May as the official Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 trophy arrived in the city, marking a major milestone with less than 100 days to go before the tournament kicks off.

As part of its nationwide countdown tour the trophy made several stops across Salford, beginning at Eccles RFC.

Schoolchildren, university students and local grassroots teams got involved in special rugby sessions led by the Sale Sharks Foundation - budding players to passionate fans, the day was all about celebrating community, sport, and the road to 2025.

The tour continued to MediaCity with a stop at BBC Sport’s studios before heading to The Lowry Plaza for a public event that drew crowds from across Greater Manchester.

Families and rugby fans gathered to see the trophy up close, take part in activities, and soak in the build-up to what is set to be the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup in history.

City leaders including Salford Mayor Paul Dennett, Deputy Mayor Councillor Jack Youd, and Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith joined the celebration, alongside England legend and World Cup winner Gill Burns MBE.

"Salford is proud to be one of the host cities," said Mayor Dennett. "This is a major international event and we hope it inspires people of all ages to get involved - whether that’s playing rugby, supporting local clubs or coming to matches this summer."

Salford Community Stadium will host several matches during the tournament which runs from 22nd August to 27th September.

With over 300,000 tickets already sold fans are being urged to secure their seats for a historic summer of rugby.