Six Red Roses named on King's New Year Honours List

Six members of the Women’s Rugby World Cup winning Red Roses have been named on the King’s New Year Honours List for 2026.

Head coach, John Mitchell, along with captain, Zoe Stratford (née Aldcroft) and two-time Women’s Rugby World Cup winner Marlie Packer will all receive OBEs.

World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year nominee and vice captain, Megan Jones, back-row forward Sadia Kabeya and BBC Sports Personality of the Year runner-up, Ellie Kildunne, have been recognised with MBEs.

Mitchell said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive this recognition, but I want to be clear that it reflects the work of the Red Roses World Cup-winning squad and the outstanding staff around them.

“That campaign was built on collective effort – starting from the leaders making it real with players who set the standards every day, coaches and performance staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and a wider RFU support team whose contribution often goes unseen but is absolutely vital. It was a privilege to be part of such a committed, driven and united group.

“I am grateful to the players for their trust and professionalism, and to the staff for their expertise, honesty and relentless work ethic throughout the path to victory.

“I would also like to thank my family, especially my wife, Jules, as well as my friends for their support during an intense period that demanded a great deal from everyone involved. I accept this honour on behalf of the entire Red Roses World Cup squad and staff, and with sincere thanks to all who played a part.”

For Stratford, who was named captain of the Red Roses at the start of 2025, it has been a mesmeric 2025.

Not only did the 29-year-old lead England to a seventh Guinness Women’s Six Nations title in a row, but a first Women’s Rugby World Cup crown in 11 years.

Stratford said: “Being named on the King’s New Year honours, alongside some of my amazing teammates, is a special privilege.

“The recognition isn’t mine alone. This year I have felt nothing but love and support from so many people and I am extremely grateful.

“My family’s belief in me on this journey has been unrivalled, and I am also fortunate to have been surrounded by an unbelievable group of players and staff who have given everything to the Red Roses.

“The fans have made this year even more exceptional than I thought imaginable. Their constant energy and enthusiasm has been out of this world and will no doubt continue to contribute to the growth of the women’s game.

“As Red Roses, our aim is always to inspire. We hope we will continue to do so in 2026 and make people all over the country incredibly proud.”

2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup chair, Gill Whitehead, has been honoured with an OBE for services to women’s rugby, while World Cup managing director, Sarah Massey, will receive an MBE.

RFU Chief Executive, Bill Sweeney, took the opportunity to acknowledge the members of the rugby community who had also been named on the Honours List and the importance of England’s Women’s Rugby World Cup success.

Sweeney said: “On behalf of everyone at the RFU, I would like to congratulate all those who have been honoured. Each played an integral role during a defining year for women’s rugby in this country, and the recognition they have received is thoroughly deserved.

“These individual honours reflect the collective efforts of the entire squad and the wider support team. The Red Roses’ influence on societal change on the women’s game has been exponential. This outstanding group has set exemplary standards on and off the field, inspiring and connecting with people across the country. Their combined contribution has helped to shape a future in which women’s rugby can thrive, from grassroots to elite level.

“As a memorable 2025 draws to a close, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved and look forward to what the New Year will bring.”