England's women's rugby stars are in discussions with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) over improved contract terms after a season of unprecedented success, including a World Cup victory and a fifth consecutive Six Nations Grand Slam.
Dominance on the Field
John Mitchell's Red Roses have established themselves as the dominant force in women's rugby. In September, they lifted the Women's World Cup at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium in front of a sold-out crowd of 81,885. Last week, they secured a fifth consecutive Women's Six Nations Grand Slam and an eighth consecutive Championship title, extending their winning streak to 38 matches.
Current Contract Structure
England's top 25 men's players receive the majority of their salaries from their clubs, with additional contributions from the RFU through enhanced elite player squad (EPS) deals. For women, the structure is different. They can currently earn up to approximately £50,000 per year in basic salary from the RFU, with smaller contributions from their club employers in Premiership Women's Rugby. Red Roses who were part of the World Cup squad each received a £20,000 bonus for winning the tournament. In successful seasons, players can earn close to £80,000 per year, plus sponsorship and endorsements.
Contract Negotiations Underway
Most of England's women's current three-year contracts expire in June, prompting negotiations for fresh terms. Team England Ltd, which has taken over player contracting from the Rugby Players' Association, is in discussions with the RFU. All signs point to a positive resolution in the coming weeks. These talks were scheduled regardless of England's success and would have taken place at this point anyway.
Pay Rise Expected
The RFU does not disclose the value of its deals, but new women's contracts are expected to include a pay raise, reflecting not only on-field success but also the significant growth in popularity of women's rugby in England. However, women's payments still pale in comparison to men's earnings. Steve Borthwick's England men's squad earn around £22,000 per Test appearance if not on an EPS contract, with EPS deals worth a basic £150,000 per year.
Balancing Investment and Profitability
There is broad acceptance that England women, now attracting large crowds and delivering unprecedented success, deserve higher pay. However, women's rugby is not yet profitable, and the RFU must balance increased compensation with financial sustainability. The RFU has invested heavily in the women's game, losing a total of £18.4 million over the last four years. Further losses are forecast, with the RFU hoping to break even by the early 2030s. Losses stem from lower ticket prices, sponsorship, and broadcast income compared to the men's game. For example, an average ticket for England women's Six Nations match against Ireland cost £15, compared to £100 for the men's equivalent.
Future Pricing Strategy
The RFU is the world's leading investor in women's rugby, having ploughed £24 million into the Premiership Women's Rugby over the past decade. To capitalise on England's success and minimise losses, the RFU is gradually increasing Red Roses ticket prices, though they will remain far below men's match prices.
