In a groundbreaking move that promises to reshape the landscape of women’s sports, the Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) league is officially set to launch in 2025, ushering in a new era of professional rugby in the United States. This historic step marks the beginning of the first fully professional women’s rugby league in the country, just ahead of the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup and 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup, both of which will be hosted by the U.S.
A Bold Leap for Women’s Rugby
For years, female athletes in rugby have fought for the recognition and opportunities afforded to their male counterparts. The WER league aims to change that by providing full-time contracts for players and bringing the highest level of competition to the U.S. rugby scene. The league will be a pivotal force in growing the sport across the nation, with 7 teams slated to participate in its inaugural season.
The teams will be strategically located across key cities, allowing the league to build a national fan base and tap into regional rugby talent. For many, this launch is a dream realized—a direct pathway for young women to pursue a career in rugby, knowing there is a sustainable, professional platform for their skills.
Investing in Athletic Talent
The WER league is not just about competition; it’s about nurturing talent and elevating women’s rugby to an international standard. Players will receive a level of compensation and exposure that’s never been seen before in the U.S. rugby scene. The league’s backing comes from a strong coalition of former national team players, investors, and rugby advocates who are committed to developing a product that can compete globally.
The league’s long-term vision is to develop players who can contend for spots on the U.S. national team and ultimately bring home titles on the world stage. With the 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup being a key focus, WER is positioning itself as the breeding ground for the country’s most elite rugby athletes.
The Path to the World Cups
By launching just ahead of the world cups, the Women’s Elite Rugby league offers a clear development pipeline for athletes to showcase their skills and earn spots on the national team. With major international tournaments on the horizon, the league provides a critical window for women to gain the experience and exposure needed to compete at the highest levels of rugby.
For many U.S. rugby fans, this is the moment they’ve been waiting for—a league that not only elevates the visibility of women’s rugby but also fosters national pride and competitiveness on the world stage. The WER league is set to inspire a generation of rugby stars and fans alike.
The Future of U.S. Women’s Rugby
With the U.S. set to host both the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup and 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup, the timing of the Women’s Elite Rugby league couldn’t be more perfect. As the country takes its place as a global rugby powerhouse, the new league will help lay the foundation for future success, ensuring that the U.S. remains competitive on the international stage for years to come.
Fans can expect to see some of the world’s best players competing in the WER league, with the potential for players to come from all corners of the globe to raise the league’s level of competition.
What’s Next?
As the 2025 launch date nears, more details about teams, player signings, and league structure will be released. But one thing is clear: the Women’s Elite Rugby league is more than just a professional sports league—it’s a movement that will forever change the landscape of women’s rugby in the U.S.
The future is bright, and it’s kicking off in 2025. Get ready for the new era of women’s rugby.
