Women’s World Rugby Cup fever arrived in Brighton city centre last week when thousands of fans from all over the world gathered to celebrate and soak up the atmosphere at the Fan Zone in Victoria Gardens.
Organised by the council’s events team, the Fan Zone came alive over four days with music, dance, food and drink, games and activities for all the family, plus the chance to watch matches live on a giant screen.
Visitors were kept entertained by local musicians, dance groups and DJs but the highlight was undoubtedly a visit from England’s Red Roses and Australia’s Wallaroos, who took time from their training to meet the fans.
The players enjoyed answering questions from children from Hangleton and Benfield Schools who were keen to find out ‘what they ate for breakfast,’ who their heroes were, and how it felt to be representing their countries.
The Red Roses were clearly enjoying their stay the city, along with the many fans who had travelled hundreds of miles to enjoy the once in a lifetime experience.
When asked why Brighton & Hove was a great host city, fans responded with ‘amazing, welcoming, great transportation and connectivity, diverse, vibrant, lively, fabulous, fun and everyone is welcome,’ with many commenting on the amazing weather enjoyed over the weekend.
And a group of fans who’d been following every England match, were proud to declare the Brighton Fan Zone as the ‘best by far.’
Council leader Bella Sankey said: “We promised a Fan Zone that reflected the culture, creativity and quirky side of Brighton & Hove, while supporting our local communities and businesses, and from the positive comments we’ve had, we certainly delivered!
“Becoming a host city for the Women’s Rugby World Cup is a huge honour but also a huge responsibility, and we are proud to have risen to the challenge and created wonderful and lasting memories for so many people.
“I’d like to thank all those involved with the planning, preparation and delivery of such a successful event, from the businesses, entertainers, sports clubs and community groups who supported us, to our own staff and the volunteers who gave up their time to give the fans such a warm welcome.”
The city hosted two thrilling matches at Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium during the record-breaking tournament, including the Red Roses victory over Australia.
Tickets for the two games had sold out quickly, but having a giant screen in the Fan Zone showing live games, gave everyone a chance to come together, celebrate and be part of the Women’s Rugby World Cup experience.
The tournament builds on the success of previous major sporting events hosted in the city. In 2022, England Lionesses thrilled crowds at Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium on their journey to become UEFA European Champions.
Brighton & Hove was also one of the host cities for the men’s Rugby World Cup in 2015, with matches at the Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium including the historic shock 34-32 Japan victory over South Africa.
Cllr Sankey added: “We a proud of our reputation as a major sporting city, capable of hosting major events and welcome the opportunities they bring for our residents.
“We look forward to seeing many more women and girls inspired and getting involved with sport as a result of this wonderful record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup.”
