LONDON (AP) — Basking in the afterglow of the best Women’s Rugby World Cup yet, World Rugby warned success may be gauged differently when Australia hosts the next tournament in 2029.

The England-hosted tournament, capped by the home team beating Canada 33-13 in the final at sold-out Twickenham on Saturday, smashed already-ambitious forecasts for revenue from tickets, brand and commercial partnerships, media rights and merchandise sales. Playing standards improved and social media engagement was phenomenal.

“A lot to live up to,” said Jilly Collins, Rugby Australia general manager women’s rugby.

She and Australian government representatives shadowed World Cup organizers to learn what made the women’s event tick ahead of hosting the men’s tournament in 2027 and the women’s two years lat

See Full Page