Kate hosts Rugby World Cup winners at Windsor Castle

Kate hosts Rugby World Cup winners at Windsor CastleKate hosted the winning women’s rugby squad, with the World Cup trophy taking centre stage at the reception

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The Princess of Wales has welcomed England’s Red Roses to Windsor Castle to celebrate their Rugby World Cup triumph last autumn.

The Princess of Wales during a reception at Windsor Castle for the England women’s rugby team following their World Cup win in September 2025 (Kin Cheung/PA)PA Wire

Kate hosted the winning women’s rugby squad, with the World Cup trophy taking centre stage at the reception.

The Princess of Wales during a reception for the England women’s rugby teamPA Wire

The royal followed the team’s campaign in her role as patron of the Rugby Football Union, watching from the stands when they defeated Australia in Brighton in a pool match, and then joining the players when they held a celebratory sing-song in the changing rooms.

In the final, the Red Roses beat Canada 33-13 in front of a record 81,885 spectators who filled a sold-out Twickenham, a third World Cup victory following wins in 2014 and 1994.

The Princess of Wales with members of the England Women’s Rugby team (Kin Cheung/PA)

Among the guests were captain Zoe Stratford, double Rugby World Cup winner Marlie Packer and head coach John Mitchell – who were all named as OBE recipients in the New Year Honours.

The Princess of WalesKin Cheung/PA Wire

They were joined by vice-captain Megan Jones, standout back row Sadia Kabeya and Sports Personality of the Year nominee Ellie Kildunne, all recognised with MBE awards.

The players arrived late after their coach broke down and their private tour of Windsor Castle, ahead of their reception with Kate, had to be cancelled.