The Royal Highness The Princess of Wales
Kensington Palace
London
W8 4PU                                                                                                                  

29.09.2023

Your Royal Highness,

Stand with England’s Red Roses: Demand Equal Media Coverage for Women’s Rugby 

I am writing to you today to draw your attention to a matter of utmost importance to the growth and recognition of women’s sport, specifically women’s rugby and the England’s Red Roses. 

As the Patron of the Rugby Football Union, your voice carries immense significance and influence. I would like to request that you use your esteemed position to advocate for equal media coverage for the national England Women’s rugby team, the Red Roses. This is not just a matter of fairness but also a crucial step towards fostering gender equality in sport and inspiring the next generation of female athletes. 

In the latest disappointing decision for women’s sport the BBC refused to broadcast the international England Red Roes games against Canada (23rd September & 30th September 2023), despite the fact both games were offered to the broadcaster the rights for free. Such decisions continue to perpetuate the longstanding issues of gender inequalities in sports coverage. To add to this the upcoming new WXV international women competition starting in October 2023 will also not receive TV coverage.

The record-breaking crowd of 58,498 at the Six Nations match between England and France, where England secured their Grand Slam victory with a thrilling 38-22 win at Twickenham, was a significant milestone for women’s rugby. It showcases the growing interest and support for women’s rugby and marked a historic moment in sport’s evolution. This tournament alone generated 450 million online content views is a clear indication of the changing attitudes and enthusiasm for women’s rugby. 

As women’s rugby continues to grow and thrive at grassroots and elite level, it is essential to maintain and build on this momentum by promoting more women’s matches, providing greater exposure through media coverage, and encouraging investment and sponsorship in the sport. With the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup set to be hosted in England the potential benefits to the nation are unlimited from economic impact, community engagement, socio and cultural benefits, inspiring future generations to lead more active lifestyles. By limiting media coverage of women’s sport in the build up to the world cup, it reduces the potential impact of this global event.  

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By standing with and championing their cause, your support in this endeavour would undoubtedly make a significant impact, not only within the rugby community but also in society at large, by promoting gender equity and empowering women in sports. We hope that, in future broadcasters like the BBC will reconsider their decisions and contribute positively to equal representation and support for athletes regardless of their gender. 

Your Royal Highness, I would like to express my gratitude for your unwavering commitment to the sport of rugby and your dedication to making it more equitable and inclusive. 

I eagerly await your response. 

Kind regards,
Charlie White 
Campaigner for Equal Media Coverage for Women in Sport