The Rising Tide of Women’s Rugby: A Global Phenomenon and German Potential
The Six Nations tournament, recently launched with a compelling match between France and Ireland, serves as a powerful reminder of rugby’s growing global appeal. Even as the sport enjoys a strong following internationally, its potential within Germany remains largely untapped. Expert Lena Lundius is spearheading efforts to change this, highlighting the impressive worldwide growth, particularly among women and girls.
Global Growth and Shifting Demographics
Worldwide, rugby boasts over 8 million active participants, experiencing double-digit growth rates. This surge is especially pronounced in the women’s game. The 2023 Rugby World Cup in France attracted over 2.4 million fans to stadiums, while the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England achieved record television and streaming viewership.
The numbers speak for themselves: the final of the Women’s Rugby World Cup peaked at around 5.8 million viewers, surpassing the 4-5 million typically seen for top men’s Six Nations matches. This demonstrates a clear shift in audience engagement and a growing mainstream acceptance of women’s rugby.
Germany’s Emerging Rugby Scene
“Women’s rugby has arrived in the global mainstream. In Germany, however, perception still lags behind reality,” explains Lena Lundius. Despite this gap, positive developments are underway. ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE, with ProSieben MAXX and Joyn, is significantly expanding its rugby coverage. Starting in 2026, all 15 matches of the Six Nations will be broadcast live on free-to-air television and streaming platforms – a landmark achievement for the German rugby community.
Beyond the Scoreboard: Values and Empowerment
Rugby isn’t just about athletic prowess; it embodies core values like teamwork, respect, courage, and inclusion. These qualities make it an ideal vehicle for female empowerment and the development of young women. Lundius aims to inspire more girls in Germany to embrace the sport, whether as players, fans, or role models.
Collaboration for Growth: A Call to Action
To increase the visibility of rugby in Germany, Lena Lundius is actively seeking collaboration with clubs, schools, and businesses. Planned initiatives include:
- Initiating trial training sessions and rugby workshops specifically for girls.
- Implementing school projects to foster sporting talent.
- Networking between sports and business stakeholders to promote targeted girls’ development.
These efforts aim to break down barriers and create opportunities for girls to experience the benefits of rugby.
The Power of Media Exposure
Increased media coverage, like the upcoming broadcasts on ProSieben MAXX and Joyn, is crucial for raising awareness and attracting latest participants. This exposure not only showcases the excitement of the game but similarly provides positive role models for aspiring female athletes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is rugby a dangerous sport for women?
A: Like all contact sports, rugby carries a risk of injury. However, safety protocols and advancements in protective gear are continually improving, and the focus is on safe and controlled play.
Q: What are the benefits of playing rugby?
A: Rugby promotes physical fitness, teamwork, discipline, and resilience. It also fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.
Q: How can I gain involved in women’s rugby in Germany?
A: Contact local rugby clubs or Lena Lundius directly to learn about opportunities for training, playing, or volunteering.
Q: What is the future outlook for women’s rugby?
A: The future is bright. With continued growth in participation, viewership, and media coverage, women’s rugby is poised to develop into a major force in the global sporting landscape.
Did you know? The Women’s Rugby World Cup is experiencing faster growth in viewership than many established men’s sporting events.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to rugby, start by attending a local match or watching a game online to familiarize yourself with the rules and excitement of the sport.
Want to learn more about the growing world of rugby? Explore additional resources on Six Nations Rugby and RugbyPass.
Share your thoughts on the future of women’s rugby in the comments below! Let’s discuss how One can continue to grow this incredible sport.
