Rugby World Cup trophy arrives in Exeter

The golden trophy was welcomed to the city with a civic reception at Exeter’s historic Guildhall, ahead of a two-day public showcase in Princesshay on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 May.

Exeter is one of eight host cities for the tournament and will stage seven matches at Sandy Park, including two quarter-finals. The venue will welcome the world’s top teams between 22 August and 27 September 2025, as part of the most inclusive and accessible Rugby World Cup to date.

Fans in Exeter now have a chance to get up close to the trophy, take photos, and take part in activities as anticipation builds for the summer spectacle.

“Sandy Park has shown time and again that it can welcome the world and deliver with passion and excellence,” said Bindu Arjoon, Chief Executive of Exeter City Council.

“But this tournament is about more than elite sport – it’s about inspiring the next generation of girls and women, and ensuring the legacy of this event has real, lasting impact.”

The new Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Anne Jobson, said it was “an equally proud moment” to the men’s Rugby World Cup when the Ellis Cup was welcomed to the Guildhall.

“This is not just about sport – it’s about inspiring the next generation, celebrating community, and promoting equality both on and off the pitch,” she said.

The tournament is expected to bring a major boost to women’s sport participation and the local economy, with thousands of fans expected to descend on Sandy Park and the surrounding city.

A vibrant programme of rugby-themed events is planned in the run-up to and during the tournament, including:

• An official fanzone in Princesshay

• Team welcome ceremonies

• Community engagement sessions in schools and clubs

• Opportunities for local residents to meet players from visiting nations

Tickets are now on sale via tickets.rugbyworldcup.com, with prices starting at £10 for adults and £5 for children - part of the tournament’s drive to make the event accessible to all.

Exeter will host teams including New Zealand, USA, Canada, South Africa, and Australia, with matches taking place at Sandy Park on:

• Sunday 24 August

• Thursday 28 August

• Tuesday 2 September

• Saturday 6 September

• Wednesday 10 September

• Sunday 14 September

• Quarter-final day: Saturday 20 September

“The Women’s Rugby World Cup is now less than 100 days away, and excitement is building across the city,” said Council Leader Phil Bialyk. “It will provide a major boost to women’s participation in sport and to the city generally.”

The trophy will be on public display in Princesshay on:

• Wednesday 21 May from 9am to 12pm

• Thursday 22 May from 9am to 2pm