Women’s rugby has evolved from a niche sport into a global powerhouse of athleticism, strategy, and national pride. Across continents, female rugby teams have emerged as dominant forces, winning World Cups, Olympic medals, and continental championships while inspiring generations of young athletes. The journey of these teams reflects not just a rise in sporting excellence but also a breakthrough in gender equity and international recognition.
The Top 10 Female Rugby Teams in the world today are more than just successful squads—they are legendary institutions. These teams have delivered unforgettable performances on the biggest stages, showcasing elite fitness, flawless execution, and remarkable teamwork. From the unrivaled dominance of New Zealand’s Black Ferns to the rising strength of France and Fiji, these teams have helped shape the narrative of women’s rugby.
This list highlights teams that have consistently performed at the highest level, made historic breakthroughs, and cultivated rugby cultures that transcend borders. Some, like England and Canada, have deep-rooted rugby traditions, while others, like Brazil or Kenya, are thrilling the world with their rapid growth and flair. Each team on this list has earned its place through passion, perseverance, and unmatched skill.
In celebrating the Top 10 Female Rugby Teams, we also honour the legacy, resilience, and global impact of women’s rugby. Whether it’s the structured brilliance of England’s Red Roses or the flamboyant play of Fijiana, these teams continue to push the sport forward—breaking speed records, winning titles, and expanding rugby’s reach like never before.
Top 10 Female Rugby Teams you must know:
10. Japan Women’s Rugby – Sakura Fifteen
Japan’s women’s rugby team, known as the Sakura Fifteen, has made impressive strides in recent years, solidifying its place among the Top 10 Female Rugby Teams. With a disciplined, fast-paced playing style and a commitment to structured development, Japan has become one of Asia’s most technically sound and promising sides.
The team made its World Cup debut in 1991 and has since worked tirelessly to compete with the global elite. Japan’s standout performances in the Asia Rugby Women’s Championship and increasing appearances in international fixtures have showcased their steady improvement. Notably, they secured their best-ever World Cup finish in 1994 (8th place) and continue to build momentum with young talent and increased investment in women’s sport.
What makes the Sakura Fifteen notable is their tactical execution, fitness, and cohesive teamwork. While they may not yet have the same trophy cabinet as the sport’s giants, Japan’s strategic style and fearless play have earned them growing respect on the world stage.
| World Cup Appearances | 5 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | 8th Place (1994) |
9. Spain Women’s Rugby Team
Spain’s women’s rugby team has steadily grown into one of Europe’s most respected sides and rightfully earns a place among the top 10 female rugby teams. Known for their technical discipline, swift backline movement, and relentless defense, Spain has consistently challenged traditional rugby powers on the global stage.
The team made a significant mark during the late 1990s and early 2000s, notably finishing 6th in the 1998 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Although Spain narrowly missed qualification for recent tournaments, their presence in the Rugby Europe Women’s Championship remains dominant, regularly outperforming regional rivals. Spain’s strong grassroots development and women’s rugby infrastructure have helped them stay competitive and continue climbing the rankings.
Among the top 10 female rugby teams, Spain stands out for its blend of structured play and creative flair. The team emphasizes fitness, agility, and quick passing, making their style difficult to contain. With a renewed focus on youth talent and sevens crossovers, Spain’s future in women’s rugby looks increasingly bright.
| World Cup Appearances | 6 (1991–2017) |
| Best Finish | 6th Place (1998) |
8. Italy Women’s Rugby Team
Italy has become a serious contender in international women’s rugby, earning its spot among the top 10 female rugby teams. With consistent performances in the Women’s Six Nations and solid showings at Rugby World Cups, the Italian women’s team has built a reputation for technical accuracy, strong scrummaging, and effective tactical kicking.
Italy first participated in the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991 and has shown gradual improvement with every appearance. Their recent performances, including victories over top-tier teams like Scotland and Ireland in the Six Nations, highlight how far the team has come. In 2022, Italy made history by reaching the quarterfinals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the first time, underlining their progress and resilience.
What places Italy firmly among the top 10 female rugby teams is their balance of physicality and finesse. The backline is known for quick hands and clean breaks, while the forwards consistently win breakdown contests. With a growing domestic league and increased investment in women’s rugby, Italy’s future looks promising on the global stage.
| World Cup Appearances | 6 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | Quarterfinals (2021) |
7. Ireland Women’s Rugby Team
Ireland has firmly established itself among the top 10 female rugby teams with a history of strong performances, historic victories, and a growing rugby culture. Known for their grit, disciplined defense, and structured gameplay, the Irish women’s team has consistently challenged higher-ranked opponents and made headlines with their breakthroughs.
Ireland made their Rugby World Cup debut in 1994 and reached their peak in 2014, finishing fourth after a famous win over New Zealand’s Black Ferns—their first and only loss in World Cup history until then. That victory showcased Ireland’s tactical prowess, physical conditioning, and ability to rise under pressure. They also claimed the Women’s Six Nations Championship in both 2013 and 2015, highlighting their consistency and evolution.
As one of the top 10 female rugby teams, Ireland stands out for blending physical dominance with smart decision-making. Their recent focus on development pathways, professional contracts, and grassroots rugby is already revitalizing the team and setting the stage for a strong return to global prominence.
| World Cup Appearances | 6 (1994–2014) |
| Best Finish | 4th Place (2014) |
6. Canada Women’s Rugby Team
Canada has consistently been one of the most competitive teams in women’s rugby, earning a strong and deserving place among the top 10 female rugby teams in the world. Known for their power, pace, and professionalism, the Canadian women’s team has built a global reputation as a fierce and respected side.
Since their first Women’s Rugby World Cup appearance in 1991, Canada has qualified for every edition and often finished in the top tier. Their best result came in 2014, when they reached the final before falling to England in a hard-fought match. That performance elevated their global standing and marked a historic moment in North American rugby. In both Sevens and XVs, Canada’s athletes are known for their physical strength, structured defense, and relentless attack.
Among the top 10 female rugby teams, Canada is notable for its athleticism and depth of talent. With strong domestic pathways, a growing league system, and regular fixtures against the world’s best, Canada continues to push the standards of international women’s rugby higher.
| World Cup Appearances | 9 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | Runners-up (2014) |
5. France Women’s Rugby Team
France has long been one of the most consistent and formidable sides in international women’s rugby, firmly establishing themselves among the top 10 female rugby teams. With a unique combination of flair, strength, and tactical discipline, the French team is known for their entertaining style and ability to challenge any opponent on the world stage.
Since their first Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991, France has qualified for every edition and reached the semifinals on multiple occasions. Although they have never played in a final, they’ve finished third an impressive seven times, reflecting their consistent top-tier performance. In the Women’s Six Nations Championship, France has often been England’s toughest competitor, winning the title six times and claiming numerous runners-up finishes.
Among the top 10 female rugby teams, France is admired for their flowing backline plays, powerful forwards, and passionate fan support. With strong domestic leagues like the Elite 1, France has built a robust pipeline of talent and remains a perennial contender for major titles. Their blend of athleticism and artistry continues to make them one of the most feared teams in women’s rugby.
| World Cup Appearances | 9 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | 3rd Place (7 times) |
4. Australia Women’s Rugby Team
Australia has built a strong legacy in both Sevens and XVs formats, earning its position among the top 10 female rugby teams in the world. Known for their competitive edge, tactical intelligence, and physical fitness, the Australian women’s rugby squad has achieved success on multiple international stages.
In the Sevens format, Australia has been a trailblazer. They won the inaugural Olympic gold medal in women’s rugby at the 2016 Rio Games and followed it up with a World Cup Sevens title in 2022. In XVs, the Wallaroos have been consistent World Cup participants since 1998, with their best finish coming in 2010 when they placed third. Their attacking structure, set-piece strength, and game management have made them a threat to any opponent.
As one of the top 10 female rugby teams, Australia is praised for its deep talent pool and elite player development programs. With continued investment and a strong national setup, the Wallaroos and their Sevens counterparts remain a powerful force in global women’s rugby.
| World Cup Appearances | 6 (1998–2021) |
| Best Finish | 3rd Place (2010) |
3. England Women’s Rugby Team
England has long been one of the most dominant forces in women’s rugby, consistently ranking among the top 10 female rugby teams in the world. Their powerhouse forward pack, clinical backline, and structured game plan have helped them maintain elite status for decades.
The England women’s team, also known as the Red Roses, were crowned world champions in 1994 and 2014, and have finished as runners-up on five occasions. They are the most successful team in Women’s Six Nations history, winning 19 titles, many of them Grand Slams. Their commitment to professionalism, including full-time contracts and a strong domestic league, has raised the bar for women’s rugby globally.
As one of the top 10 female rugby teams, England is renowned for its depth, consistency, and strategic leadership. Their ability to execute high-pressure plays, dominate possession, and control territory has made them a formidable opponent on the world stage. With a well-established rugby culture and elite infrastructure, England remains a leading example of how to build a winning legacy in women’s rugby.
| World Cup Appearances | 9 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | Champions (1994, 2014) |
2. New Zealand Women’s Rugby Team
New Zealand’s women’s rugby team, famously known as the Black Ferns, is one of the most successful and iconic sides in the history of the sport. With unmatched dominance and a decorated trophy cabinet, the Black Ferns are a staple among the top 10 female rugby teams globally. Their blend of strength, speed, and instinctive flair makes them one of the most feared teams in both Sevens and XVs formats.
The Black Ferns have won the Women’s Rugby World Cup a record six times, including a memorable victory on home soil in 2021. Their ability to perform under pressure, adapt tactically, and maintain an explosive style of play has consistently put them ahead of the pack. In Sevens, New Zealand’s women are equally dominant, winning Olympic gold in 2021 and multiple World Series titles.
What makes New Zealand firmly part of the top 10 female rugby teams is not just their success, but also their influence on the global growth of the women’s game. With strong Māori representation, a rich rugby heritage, and elite coaching, the Black Ferns continue to raise the bar for excellence in women’s rugby.
| World Cup Appearances | 9 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | Champions (1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2017, 2021) |
1. United States Women’s Rugby Team
The United States women’s rugby team holds a historic and influential place among the top 10 female rugby teams. As the inaugural champions of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991, the USA Eagles set a powerful precedent for excellence in the global women’s game. Their athleticism, speed, and commitment to physical play have made them a consistent force across both the XVs and Sevens formats.
The Eagles reached three consecutive World Cup finals in 1991, 1994, and 1998, finishing first and twice as runners-up. In the Sevens format, the USA has developed into a top-four global team, regularly challenging the best in the world and medaling in the World Rugby Sevens Series. Their squad features athletes with multi-sport backgrounds, bringing elite-level speed, agility, and conditioning to every match.
As one of the top 10 female rugby teams, the United States continues to inspire a new generation of players through college development programs, inclusive grassroots efforts, and rising media visibility. With renewed investment and a push toward professionalization, the USA Eagles are poised to reclaim a leading role on the world stage.
| World Cup Appearances | 8 (1991–2021) |
| Best Finish | Champions (1991) |
FAQs
Q1. What are the top 10 female rugby teams in the world?
The top 10 female rugby teams include New Zealand, England, USA, Australia, France, Canada, Ireland, Italy, Spain, and Japan. These teams have consistently excelled at World Cups and continental tournaments.
Q2. Which country has won the most Women’s Rugby World Cups?
New Zealand has won the most Women’s Rugby World Cups, with a record six titles (1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2017, and 2021).
Q3. Why is the USA included in the top 10 female rugby teams?
The USA was the first-ever Women’s Rugby World Cup champion in 1991 and remains a strong contender in both XVs and Sevens formats.
Q4. How often is the Women’s Rugby World Cup held?
The Women’s Rugby World Cup is held every four years, with the next edition scheduled for 2025 in England
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