Bristol Bears sign Ellie Kildunne in ‘huge statement of intent’

Red Roses fullback Ellie Kildunne has signed with Bristol Bears ahead of the 2026/27 Premiership Women’s Rugby season, with coach Scott Lawson describing the transfer as “a huge statement of intent” for the side.

Kildunne became one of the biggest names in the sport during a decorated stint with Harlequins, with the 26-year-old making 60 appearances for the London club over five seasons – helping them reach the semi-finals twice.

Harlequins confirmed earlier this month that Kildunne would be leaving the club, which sparked immediate speculation on what was next for the England star. Kildunne has since opened up about her future on Rugby Rodeo, saying, “I don’t know what club to play for yet.”

Kildunne recently helped England win the 2026 Six Nations and finished second in the 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, and is now set for a new chapter in Bear Country. The 2025 Rugby World Cup winner joins multiple England teammates at the Bears for next season.

“Bristol Bears feels like the perfect club for me at this stage of my career,” Kildunne said.

“The way the team plays is hugely exciting and completely aligned with how I want to express myself on the pitch. The ambition, the style and the belief within the group really stood out whenever I have played against them.

“I’ve always loved playing in Bristol – both for club and country. The World Cup semi-final at Ashton Gate was an incredible occasion and the fans there are hugely passionate and create an incredible atmosphere.

“Bristol has built a fantastic brand in women’s rugby. It’s a club that’s ambitious, innovative and isn’t afraid to do things differently. That’s something I really wanted to be a part of.

“I can’t wait to get started, meet my new teammates and hopefully create some special memories together.”

 

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Kildunne is a marquee addition to a Bristol squad that includes fellow World Cup winners like Abbie Ward, Sarah Bern and Hannah Botterman. Black Ferns playmaker Ruahei Demant and Paris Olympics bronze medallist Ilona Maher have also represented the club.

The fullback was named Player of the Match after steering England towards a 43-28 win over France at Bordeaux’s Stade Atlantique last month. That win saw the Red Roses secure the Six Nations crown and once again showed how influential Kildunne can be on the rugby field.

“Signing Ellie is a huge statement of intent and we’re delighted that she’ll be a Bristol Bears player as she comes into the peak years of her already incredibly successful career,” Lawson said.

“She is not only the World Player of the Year and one of the finest talents on the planet, but also a player who inspires people far beyond rugby. Her ability to excite supporters, influence matches and drive standards makes her a perfect fit for what we’re building at Bristol Bears.

“We’re thrilled that she has chosen Bristol as the next chapter in her career.”