Elite women’s rugby comes to Vancouver and Langley this fall

Some of the best in the world in women’s rugby will hit the pitch in Langley this fall.

Canada, England, France, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United States will compete at Willoughby Stadium Oct. 5 and 6 as part of the second annual XV 1 competition. Tickets are on sale now.

A total of nine matches featuring the six teams will be played over three consecutive weekends in September and October, with the 2025 Rugby World Cup on the horizon. Games are at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium Sept. 29, and Oct. 11 and 12.

WXV 1, an elite international competition launched in 2023 and designed to accelerate the growth of women’s rugby around the world, opens with a triple-header on Sunday, Sept. 29 at BC Place.

Although no stranger to international rugby, this will mark the first time that BC Place has hosted an international women’s fixture.

Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team, who finished second in the inaugural WXV 1 in New Zealand last year, will feature in the second match of the day, kicking off against France at 3:45 p.m. PT.

Competition will then move to Willoughby Stadium – next to Langley Events Centre – for the second weekend, which will see France take on the United States at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday Oct. 5, then Canada play Ireland on at 3:45 p.m.

And, on Sunday Oct. 6, England takes on New Zealand at 1 p.m. at the Langley venue.

The tournament then moves back to Vancouver the following weekend with action Friday, Oct. 11 between Ireland and the U.S. The competition concludes on Saturday Oct. 12 with a game between New Zealand and France at 3:45 p.m., before the grand finale kicks off at 7 p.m.

The last game features Canada, the reigning Pacific Four Series champions, and England, the winners of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations.

“We have some amazing rugby to look forward to in Vancouver this fall, with three exciting weekends featuring the world’s best teams and players as they build towards the 2025 Rugby World Cup, including our own Canadian national team,” says Nathan Bombrys, CEO of Rugby Canada.

“In addition to the matches, our Canadian women will be connecting with the local rugby community throughout the period, with the aim of inspiring the next generation of rugby players. We are grateful for the support of World Rugby, the province of British Columbia, and Sport Hosting Vancouver in bringing this pinnacle event to Vancouver. We know that the people of Vancouver and supporters from across Canada will come out in full force, making this a memorable, world-class rugby experience for fans and players alike.”

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, says he was thrilled to welcome the WXV 1 women’s rugby tournament to the city this fall.

“This event not only showcases high-level competition with some of the world’s best female rugby players, but also plays a crucial role in promoting women’s sports and inspiring future generations. Vancouver is proud to host these incredible athletes, and we’re ready to cheer them on and make this tournament an unforgettable experience.”

Get your tickets for all events at rugby.ca