Red Roses inspire rugby first with Six Nations tifo banner

Ahead of the Red Roses’ Guinness Women’s Six Nations opener against Ireland the RFU unveiled a first-of-its-kind tifo banner.

The 30x30m tifo banner was displayed on the East Stand at Allianz Stadium. Inspired by past and present Red Roses players, the tifo depicts current internationals Meg Jones, Ellie Kildunne, Sadia Kabeya and Maddie Feaunati, as well as legendary trio Sarah Hunter, Rocky Clark and Maggie Alphonsi.

The tifo was designed by illustrator Dan Evans, who was tasked with bringing the rich heritage of the team to life.

Supported by Allianz, the tifo was designed to create a shared moment for supporters in the stadium and audiences worldwide. It was a player-led activation, which was developed across a series of workshops.

Dan Evans, illustrator, said “I am very proud to have worked alongside the Red Roses to create the first ever England Rugby tifo. I can’t wait to see the work in Allianz Stadium, and hopefully it will create an amazing moment adding to the atmosphere pre match.”

Alex Teasdale, RFU Executive Director of Women’s Game, said: “This is an exciting first for rugby and for the 75,000+ fans at Allianz Stadium. The fact that this was shaped by the players themselves makes it incredibly authentic and meaningful.

“It connects our rugby past with our present. Moments like this help define the identity of the women’s game, whilst enhancing the match day experience for our fans.”