World Cup opener could double attendance record

Organisers' ambitions for attendance at the opening day of the women's World Cup continue to grow as ticket sales push further into new territory for a women's rugby event.

The Opening matches are now just 8 days away and with that opening slate set to showcase the tournaments top six teams as well as international pop star Rita Ora, kiwi fans have been buying tickets at an unprecedented rate.

The previous record for attendance at a women's rugby match was the 2014 World Cup final in France, which saw the 20,000 seat

capacity Stade Jean-Bouin stadium sold out.

Now, Organisers are hoping to fill Eden Park, having already sold more than 30,000 tickets to the tournaments opening triple-header.

Rugby World Cup 2021 Tournament Director, Michelle Hooper said:

“We came out just over a year ago with a bold ambition to set a new world record for attendance at a women’s Rugby World Cup match on opening match day at Eden Park.

"We put our faith in Kiwis to get behind this kaupapa and show up for the stars of the women's game competing here on the world-stage.

“To have already surpassed that record with one week still to go is an incredible testament to our people and their support for this vision, and also the very special manaakitanga within our sporting community here in Aotearoa.

"We’re breaking new ground with this tournament and now want to see if we can secure another record first for New Zealand and for women’s rugby by filling Eden Park.

"We believe it is possible and are over-turning every rock in the process to bring this vision to life. A moment all New Zealanders can be proud of.”

World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin today added:

“The wait is nearly over, the teams have arrived, and New Zealand is ready to get the party started – rugby’s great family reunion.

"With tickets selling fast and the opening match day at Eden Park set to be a very special and record-breaking experience, fans should secure their place now to avoid disappointment.”