BBC Sport has announced a significant broadcast deal with Premiership Women's Rugby that will see at least one live match available to watch every single week of the season across the 2025/26 and 2026/27 campaigns. The agreement, available via BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app, also includes one semi-final and the final of the competition — making it free to watch for rugby fans across the UK.
What the Deal Includes
Under the terms of the arrangement, fans can watch live PWR matches streamed free of charge on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website every week of the season. The deal extends across two seasons, giving the women's league a sustained and committed broadcast platform that had previously been unavailable.
One semi-final and the PWR final will also be broadcast live, meaning the biggest occasions in the domestic women's rugby calendar will be accessible to the entire UK public at no cost.
Why This Is a Landmark Moment
The announcement follows BBC Sport's coverage of the Women's Rugby World Cup in 2025 — an event that generated significant viewing figures and introduced a new audience to the depth of quality in the women's game. Having used that tournament to build momentum, the partnership with PWR represents a logical and welcome extension of that commitment.
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, described the deal as a significant step in the BBC's commitment to women's sport more broadly. Genevieve Shore, Executive Chair of PWR, echoed that sentiment, noting that the world's best women's club players operate in this competition every week and will now have the platform they deserve.
The Quality Is Already There
Premiership Women's Rugby consistently features international players from England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and beyond — many of whom have represented their countries at World Cup level. The competition is fast, physical and increasingly tactical, making it a compelling watch for rugby fans of all backgrounds.
The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, hosted in England across eight cities and culminating in a final that produced a memorable result, brought that calibre into focus for millions of viewers. The BBC's deal ensures that momentum is not lost when the international window closes.
What This Means for Women's Rugby at Club Level
Broadcast visibility for the elite game has a direct impact on grassroots participation. When young players — and adults new to the sport — can watch women's rugby on free-to-air television, clubs see an uptick in interest in their women's and girls' sections.
Across the UK, the number of clubs offering women's and girls' rugby has grown significantly over the past decade. Many clubs that feature in our directory have established women's sections that welcome players of all abilities and backgrounds.
If you are looking to get involved in women's rugby — whether as a player, coach or volunteer — our directory covers over 620 clubs across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Many run women's sessions specifically designed for beginners. Find your local club today.