Hosted at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, the opening ceremony welcomed players, officials and supporters from around the world. Air Vice-Marshal Cab Townsend CBE addressed the ceremony as the keynote speaker. National teams proudly paraded in their service uniforms, national dress, and tournament kit, accompanied by the Air Training Corps band and flag bearers. The Guest of Honour, England international Sarah Beckett addressed attendees and set the tone for what promises to be an inspiring celebration of military and women’s rugby, camaraderie and service. Additionally in attendance included Deputy Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General David Eastman MBE, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chiefs of Staff Committee WO1 Sarah Cox and Vice Admiral Fleur Marshall from the Royal Navy. The event also welcomed high commissioners and defence representatives from participating nations, underlining the international significance of the competition.
This year’s competition brings together teams from UK Armed Forces, Tonga, Australia, France, Fiji, Ireland, Zambia and Vodafone Looseheadz, promising to showcase women’s military Rugby. Reflecting the growing strength and inclusivity of the sport, the inclusion of Vodafone Looseheadz highlights the competitions commitment to community and mental health awareness through Rugby. Together, the teams highlight the global reach of the competition and its continuing mission to strengthen bonds through Rugby.
As the official media partner, BFBS will broadcast the tournament across its radio, TV and digital platforms, and on both BFBS and BFBS Forces News channels. Live Coverage will be available on Forces News Youtube and Facebook pages, ensuring all families and supporters across the globe can engage in the tournament.
Over the coming weeks, fixtures will be hosted at local Rugby clubs such as Esher, Maidenhead, Basingstoke, Henley and Army Rugby Aldershot. The final will be held at Kingsholm Stadium in Gloucester on September 3. Supporters are encouraged to follow the action across BFBS platforms and through official IDRC channels.
The 2025 edition promises to be a powerful display of discipline, teamwork and camaraderie, combining the traditions of military ceremony with the passion of international rugby. For fixtures, updates and coverage, visit IDRC social media pages.
