Canada to host Red Roses in Toronto for 'Rematch Tour'

Canada will host a replay of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup against England at Toronto’s BMO Field as part of ‘The Rugby Rematch Tour’ in October.

The fixture will kick-off Canada’s domestic leg of the WXV Global Series. A month earlier at Exeter’s Sandy Park, the Red Roses will host Canada in the second of their three home WXV Global Series matches. John Mitchell’s side will also host Australia’s Wallaroos and New Zealand’s Black Ferns.

It has been 15 years since Canada last played in the Greater Toronto Area. In 2011 the North Americans hosted England in Oakville at the Nations Cup.

The Test will provide home supporters with an opportunity to see their Women’s Rugby World Cup stars back on home soil and taking on the world champions again.

Presented by Canadian Tire, The Rugby Rematch Tour provides Rugby Canada with an opportunity to make the most of the huge national interest created by the team’s run to the Women’s Rugby World Cup final.

Nathan Bombrys, CEO of Rugby Canada, said: “Last fall, 3.7 million Canadians tuned in to support Canada Women’s Rugby Team’s World Cup run. There’s a fierce appetite amongst Canadians to support our world-class rugby team, and we’re pleased to bring this match against the reigning world champions to Toronto.”

“With many of our players having roots in the GTA, we are also looking forward to connecting with the rugby community during our stay and inspiring the next generation of rugby players in the region. We are grateful to Canadian Tire for choosing to support Rugby Canada and The Rugby Rematch Tour.

“We would also like to thank the department of Economic Development and Culture at the City of Toronto, Province of Ontario, and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd (MLSE) for their support in making this event possible.”

The WXV Global Series sees a transformation of women’s Test rugby. Through deepening international rivalries, teams get more regular matches against one another.

It will be the first international match hosted in Toronto since Canada’s men narrowly lost 20-18 against Italy in June 2016. It will also allow city natives Asia Hogan-Rochester and Kiki Idowu to play in front of home supporters.

Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto, said: “Toronto is proud to welcome Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team back after 15 years for The Rugby Rematch Tour against England at BMO Field. This is a major international match for our city and a proud moment for women’s sport in Toronto. As we continue to emerge as a leader in women’s athletics, we’re excited to host this world-class event, bring fans together and inspire the next generation of athletes.”

A second match of The Rugby Rematch Tour will be announced shortly.