Scottish Women's Rugby Players Face Uncertain Futures Post-World Cup

More than half of Scotland's women's rugby team face potential unemployment following the Rugby World Cup scheduled for this summer, as a representative of the squad has raised alarming concerns. According to a two-page statement submitted to BBC Sport, only 15 out of the 38-player training squad currently hold year-long contracts with Scottish Rugby. This situation leaves the remaining 23 players, who are on short-term contracts, in a precarious position where they may need to seek employment outside of rugby by the end of October.

The impending uncertainty has raised significant concerns about the mental and emotional health of the players as they prepare for the tournament, which is being hosted in England from August 22 to September 27, 2025. As stated by the squad representative, the lack of security is not conducive to a positive performance environment, which could impact their performance on the field.

Scottish Rugby has publicly acknowledged the situation, stating that they extended contracts to October to provide players with assurance while preparing for the World Cup. However, they have not yet confirmed which players will receive contracts beyond October, with intentions to clarify this process in the coming weeks.

In 2022, Scottish Rugby announced the awarding of professional contracts to 28 players, but the current ambiguity raises questions about how many players will be offered new deals after the World Cup. The governing body has emphasized its commitment to developing women’s rugby in Scotland, aiming to foster a high-performance environment that would eventually allow elite players to represent Scottish clubs rather than seek opportunities in England’s predominantly semi-professional league.

The players' concerns are compounded by the fact that many are balancing their rugby commitments with jobs or education, which may become increasingly challenging if they are left without contracts. A group of players has reportedly reached out to the Women’s Rugby Association (WRA) for guidance. The WRA had previously supported Welsh players during a contract dispute, but it remains unclear whether they will take a similar stance with the Scottish team.

Meanwhile, Rugby Players Scotland has confirmed their involvement in collective matters, such as maternity policies, but noted that individual contract negotiations are not currently part of their remit.

The Scottish Rugby Union acknowledges that the evolution of women’s rugby will require different contract options and decisions for players as they aim to create a sustainable high-performance program. In their statement, they recognized that uncertainty and change are inherent in high-performance careers and assured players of their commitment to providing support both in and out of contract.

As the team enters pre-season training, they are set to face Wales in their opening Pool B match on August 23. The outcome of the current contract discussions will not only affect the players' financial stability but also the future landscape of women's rugby in Scotland, indicating a crucial juncture for the sport. The implications of these decisions may resonate beyond the field, shaping the professional environment for women athletes in Scotland for years to come.