England's Women's Rugby Team Celebrates World Cup at Windsor

When 81,885 fans packed Twickenham Stadium in September, they witnessed history as England's women's rugby team claimed their third World Cup trophy with a commanding 33-13 victory over Canada.

On January 15, 2026, those same champions received a royal welcome at Windsor Castle, where the Princess of Wales hosted the entire 32-player squad along with coaching staff and Rugby Football Union officials. Catherine, who serves as patron of the RFU, had followed the team throughout their home World Cup campaign and cheered them on during their pool stage win against Australia in Brighton.

The celebration hit an unexpected bump when the team's bus broke down, and their replacement driver took a wrong turn. The squad arrived an hour late, missing their planned tour of Windsor Castle, but the delay couldn't dampen the spirit of the occasion.

Star player Ellie Kildunne became known for her signature cowboy hat during the competition, once placing it on Catherine's head after a victory. The Princess remembered the moment well. "It was the first thing she said when she came over to our group," Kildunne recalled. Catherine asked about the missing cowboy hat, joking that perhaps she was the one who had forgotten to bring it this time.

Kildunne, who had tattooed the number 2025 on head coach John Mitchell after their World Cup success, said she hadn't known the royal protocol when she first placed the hat on Catherine's head. "She put it on and did a bit of a cowboy dance," Kildunne shared. "She is now officially a cowboy, so I'll have to tattoo her soon."

Why This Inspires

Beyond the playful moments, the reception honored genuine excellence. Captain Zoe Stratford, two-time World Cup winner Marlie Packer, and head coach John Mitchell all received OBE honors in the New Year Honours list. Vice-captain Megan Jones, back row Sadia Kabeya, and Sports Personality of the Year nominee Ellie Kildunne were recognized with MBE awards in December.

The team presented Catherine with a signed England shirt, posed for photos with the World Cup trophy, and shared personal memories from their journey. Prop Maud Muir showed the Princess her handmade scrapbook documenting the tournament.

After Windsor Castle, the squad headed to Downing Street to meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, capping off a day of well-deserved recognition. These women proved that breaking records and breaking barriers can happen at the same time.