England’s women’s rugby team are being honoured with a special tribute on a Great Western Railway (GWR) train after their historic World Cup victory.
The Red Roses defeated Canada 33–13 in Saturday’s final at Twickenham, securing the trophy for a third time.
To mark the achievement, GWR has unveiled the slogan “Roar for the Red Roses” on the side of Intercity Express Train 800316, which was revealed at Bristol Temple Meads station.
Richard Rowland, GWR’s director of operations, said the team had “helped to raise the profile of the women’s game”. His daughter, Helena Rowland, is a member of the squad.
He added: “We’re delighted to be able to pay tribute on one of our Intercity Express Trains and to be able to do it on the same train as the Lionesses makes it a real celebration of English women’s sport. The Red Roses are truly worthy of recognition after being crowned world champions.”
A similar gesture was made when the Lionesses lifted the Euros in 2022 and again this summer.
GWR has previously honoured a number of “Great Westerners” on its trains, including wartime codebreaker Alan Turing, Queen Elizabeth II, and Welsh rugby legend Sir Gareth Edwards.
The Red Roses’ triumph has been hailed as a defining moment for women’s rugby, with their dominant display drawing huge crowds and nationwide celebration.