Celtic Challenge Expands to Six Teams for 2024-25 Season: Home and Away Format Introduced

The Celtic Challenge, a women’s rugby competition involving teams from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, is set to expand in the 2024-25 season. The tournament, which doubled in size this season from three to six teams, will now be played on a home and away basis over 10 rounds starting in December.

The expansion of the Celtic Challenge is seen as a significant step in the growth of the women’s game and will provide valuable player development ahead of the 2025 World Cup. World Rugby has praised the competition for its impressive gains, including increased attendances, broadcast agreements, and bridging the gap between domestic and Test rugby in the three nations.

This season’s Celtic Challenge saw teams from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales compete, with the Irish Wolfhounds emerging as the champions. The tournament has already proven its value, with 68 players going on to feature in the Women’s Six Nations, including eight making their Test debuts.

Nigel Walker, Welsh Rugby Union’s executive director of rugby, expressed his ambition for the Celtic Challenge, stating that it is a pivotal step in the pathway to professional and international recognition for players and coaches. Irish Rugby’s head of women’s performance, Gillian McDarby, emphasized the tournament’s importance in growing the game in Ireland and ensuring a competitive national team.

Scottish Rugby’s head of women strategy, Gemma Fay, highlighted the success of the Celtic Challenge in supporting the development of players like Alex Stewart, who earned her first cap. The expansion of the competition has provided strong benchmarks for player development, media coverage, and spectator engagement, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.