New Pay Deal for Red Roses
England's top women's rugby players, known as the Red Roses, are poised to see their earnings significantly increase under a new four-year pay agreement with the Rugby Football Union (RFU). Should they successfully defend their Women's Rugby World Cup title in Australia in 2029, some players could receive up to £100,000.
This new deal represents an estimated 25% increase on their previous terms, which are set to conclude at the end of June. The Red Roses have demonstrated remarkable success, including eight consecutive Six Nations titles and an impressive streak of 38 Test victories in a row. Their last World Cup victory in September saw them play before a sold-out crowd of 81,885 spectators.
Comparison with Other Sports and Future Prospects
Despite this substantial raise, the earnings for Red Roses players still trail behind those of their counterparts in women's football and cricket. For example, England's women's cricketers reportedly earn between £90,000 and £130,000 annually. The Lionesses, England's women's football team, also secured a bonus agreement with the Football Association in 2023 following a public dispute. Previously, Red Roses players received a £20,000 bonus for winning the Women's Rugby World Cup in September, with top players on a basic salary of approximately £50,000 per year at that time.
The RFU, which has invested £24 million into the Premiership Women's Rugby over the past decade, has committed to reviewing these new contracts after two years. This review aims to ensure that figures can increase further if the commercial performance of the women's game surpasses current expectations.
Contract Structure and Player Security
The new contracts will be structured into three different bands, with the most experienced and crucial players receiving the highest remuneration. The duration of these contracts will also vary, ranging from single-year agreements to central contracts lasting up to three years. A minimum of 32 Red Roses players are guaranteed contracts, with the official announcement of selected players expected within the next two weeks. Additionally, transitional contracts will continue to be offered to promising emerging talents.
Captain Meg Jones emphasized the significance of this agreement, stating, "As Red Roses our goal is always to be the number one team in the world on the field and off it. The investment into our programme and our pathways is critical to that and so this is an important moment for the group and for the game in England." She added that the deal provides players with greater security, more opportunities, and recognition for representing England, while also ensuring a strong pipeline of future talent.
This new agreement marks the first Red Roses deal to be negotiated by Team England Rugby, an international players' body, a departure from previous negotiations handled by the broader Rugby Players Association.
Source: Red Roses stars in line for £100k to retain World Cup