Key dates to remember as the UK gears up for a summer of women's sport
We are about to be treated to a summer of women's sport, from football tournaments to netball finals and cricket matches. So far this year, the most-watched women's sporting competition has been the Women's Boat Race, with 2.18million viewers - and millions more are expected to tune into the sport on offer over the next few months, whether on television, social media, or in-person.
Social media has been huge for women's sport - the Barclays Women's Super League has driven 56million views on TikTok and 20 million on YouTube this year, while women's football teams dominated on Instagram (FC Barcelona Women racked up 38million engagements), according to the Women's Sport Trust.
Meanwhile, viewing figures are up for the Netball Super League, with hours growing by 229% on Sky Sports in 2025 compared with the previous year. The NSL Instagram has also seen a 47% increase in engagements on social media for January to May year-on-year.
Women's rugby has experienced a boost - between January and April 2025, the Red Roses players posted more TikTok content than any other England men's or women's teams in rugby, cricket, or football. Their 6.7million TikTok views were 75% higher than the England men's team.
Tammy Parlour, CEO of Women's Sport Trust, said: 'It's hugely encouraging to see women's sport thriving on digital platforms, with athletes, teams, and leagues leveraging new ways to connect with fans. This ecosystem (built through collaboration between broadcasters, rights holders, and platforms) is vital to continuing the sport's growth.'
Let's take a look at the women's sport on offer this summer, including scheduling dates and times, how to watch, and what to expect...
UEFA Women's Euros
The Lionesses will be hoping to retain their title as European champions as they head to Switzerland for the tournament. The Euros will begin on July 2nd and the final will be held on July 27th . England, managed by Sarina Wiegman, are in Group D along with France, Wales, and the Netherlands.
How to watch: You can catch the games on BBC and ITV over the month.
Netball Super League Grand Final
The Netball Super League Grand Final will take place at the O2 in London for the first time on Sunday July 6th . Loughborough Lightning will be hoping to defend their title against London Pulse and the event has already reached record-breaking ticket sales.
How to watch: The match will be aired on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports YouTube - with coverage starting at 5pm. International viewers can watch on NetballPass.
Vitality Blast T20 Women's Finals Day
The inaugural Vitality Blast Women's Finals Day will be held at the Kia Oval on Saturday July 27th this year. The day will feature an eliminator and a final - the team finishing at the top of the group stage table will qualify straight to the final, while second and third place will battle it out in the eliminator.
How to watch: You can get tickets from £20 for adults and £5 for children to watch the game at the Oval here . The day will also be broadcast on BBC Radio and Sky Sports.
Tour de France Femmes
The Tour de France Femmes will run from July 26th to August 3rd and will see cyclists cover a 1,165km distance between Vannes in Brittany, to Châtel in the Alps. Riders, all 154 of them, will take part in nine stages - and 22 teams will be involved in the race.
How to watch: ITV will be broadcasting on TV and on streaming platform ITVX.
The Hundred
The Hundred will be kicking off on August 5th and running until the finals on August 31st , with the eliminators taking place the day before. Eight teams will be competing in the 100-ball cricket competition: Birmingham Phoenix, London Spirit, Manchester Originals, Northern Superchargers, Oval Invincibles, Southern Brave, Trent Rockets, and Welsh Fire.
How to watch: Tickets start at £14 for adults, £5 for kids, and under-twos go free. You can get them here . You can also watch the games on Sky Sports and BBC Sport, or listen along on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra.
Women's Rugby World Cup
For the first time ever, the Women's Rugby World Cup will be hosted across eight cities and venues in England: Brighton and Hove, Bristol, Exeter, London, Manchester, Northampton, Sunderland, and York. The opening game on August 22nd will be held at the Stadium of Light, and the final will take place in Twickenham at the Allianz Stadium on September 27th.
How to watch: You can sign up for tickets here . The games will be broadcast on BBC Sport.
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Sky News
2 hours ago
- Sky News
Women's Euros: Calls for extra bank holiday as Lionesses successfully defend their title
The prime minister's being urged to declare a bank holiday after England successfully defended the Women's Euros title with a dramatic win over Spain. Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey has said an additional day off would be a fitting way of honouring a "stunning achievement" by the Lionesses. But with estimates suggesting an extra bank holiday would cost the economy £2.4bn, it's understood such a move isn't being planned by Downing Street. England fans were left in a state of euphoria after watching Sarina Wiegman's side become back-to-back champions following a nail-biting match. Alessia Russo had managed to score an equaliser in the 57th minute, leading to a penalty shootout after neither team managed to pull ahead in extra time. Chloe Kelly scored the winning spot-kick following two huge saves from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, resulting in a 3-1 win on penalties. Although a bank holiday might not be on the cards, there are plans to celebrate the squad's triumphant homecoming from Switzerland. An open-top bus parade will be held in London tomorrow lunchtime along The Mall - culminating in a ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace. Fans can attend for free, and Sky News will broadcast it live. 1:25 PM: 'You've made the nation proud' Sir Keir Starmer was among the millions cheering on the Lionesses, and congratulated the team for their second consecutive win at the Euros. "What a team. What a game. What drama," he said. "You dug deep when it mattered most and you've made the nation proud. History makers." Prince William and Princess Charlotte, who attended the final at St Jakob-Park in Basel, added: "What a game! "Lionesses, you are the champions of Europe and we couldn't be prouder of the whole team. Enjoy this moment England." King Charles also shared his "most heartfelt congratulations" on the Royal Family's official X account. He wrote: "For more years than I care to remember, England fans have sung that famous chant 'football's coming home'. "As you return home with the trophy you won at Wembley three years ago, it is a source of great pride that, through sporting skill and awesome teamwork, the Lionesses have made those words ring true. "For this, you have my whole family's warmest appreciation and admiration. More than that, though, you have shown through your example over past weeks that there are no setbacks so tough that defeat cannot be transformed into victory, even as the final whistle looms." The King went on to set a fresh mission for the Lionesses, writing: "The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can!" Fans, players (and managers!) celebrate In pubs and living rooms across the country, supporters stood on tables, waved flags and threw their drinks in the air - revelling in the fact that football is staying home. Tower Bridge was lit up in red and white, and at a presentation ceremony, star striker Michelle Agyemang was named young player of the tournament. The 19-year-old had just one England cap before the Euros, and scored crucial equalisers as the Lionesses came from behind in the quarter-final and semi-final. Victory for the Lionesses is also a huge achievement for Sarina Wiegman, who has now led squads to the Euros trophy three times: The Netherlands once, and England twice. The Dutchwoman admitted that no tournament had been more "chaotic" and "ridiculous" than this one - and revealed her plans to celebrate at a post-match news conference. "I'll do some more dancing," said Wiegman. "And I'll have a drink, but I don't think I will drink as much as the players."
Daily Mail
4 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Moment Princess Charlotte's joy spoke for the nation: Now England's Lionesses look forward to London open bus top parade - and are set for Royal Reception with Prince and King
Princess Charlotte 's beaming smile and jubilant celebrations perfectly captured the nation's mood last night as England's Lionesses sealed a dramatic victory over Spain to win back-to-back European titles. Now the champions are set to be honoured with a royal reception and a victory parade through London. After 120 tense minutes against reigning World Cup holders Spain, and a nerve-shredding penalty shootout, Sarina Wiegman 's side emerged victorious once again - cementing their place in footballing history and sparking jubilant scenes across the country. Earlier in the evening, fans draped in St George's flags watched with bated breath alongside the Prince of Wales and Princess Charlotte in Basel, Switzerland — all seen holding their heads in their hands as Spain took the lead just before half-time. But the Lionesses roared back in the second half, with Arsenal striker Alessia Russo heading home a brilliant equaliser in the 57th minute, sending millions back home into raptures. With the score still tied after extra time, the match went to a penalty shootout — where goalkeeper Hannah Hampton made two huge saves before Chloe Kelly, once again, became the hero of the hour, calmly dispatching the decisive spot-kick to seal a 3-1 shootout win. Now, the Football Association has confirmed the victorious squad will celebrate in style with a victory parade on an open-top bus through central London on July 29, culminating at The Mall. It is understood a royal reception with Prince William and King Charles is also being planned to honour the team's incredible achievement. The Lionesses have roared to victory in a nailbiting penalty shootout that saw them triumph over Spain Fans can attend for free and it will be broadcast live on BBC, ITV, and Sky. Sadly, it is understood Downing Street has no plans for a bank holiday to mark the Lionesses' triumph. After the match Prince William and Charlotte penned a personal note to the team, marking the first time the Princess has ever signed off an official message. It said: 'What a game! @lionesses, you are the champions of Europe and we couldn't be prouder of the whole team. Enjoy this moment @England. W & Charlotte.' Fans across the country were pictured standing on tables, waving flags, throwing drinks in the air and excitedly hugged each other as England claimed victory, while the Prince of Wales and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer watched on from the stands in Basel, Switzerland. Speaking after the match Chloe Kelly gushed that she was 'so proud of this team, so grateful to wear this badge' and 'so proud to be English'. William was spotted in the stands applauding and celebrating with those around him - including his daughter Princess Charlotte. As the presentation ceremony took place, the Prince of Wales was among those to congratulate star striker Michelle Agyemang on being named young player of the tournament. William exchanged words with Agyemang, appearing to say 'well played, fantastic, well done'. Agyemang, 19, who had one England cap before the tournament, scored crucial equalisers in the Lionesses' quarter-final and semi-final comebacks. There was non-stop applause in her home town of South Ockendon as fans saw the Arsenal forward step through a guard of honour to pick up her award. Sir Keir was the first to congratulate England on their win - posting on X: 'Champions! Congratulations Lionesses - what a team. What a game. What drama. 'You dug deep when it mattered most and you've made the nation proud. History makers.' Followed quickly by a message from King Charles to offer the team with his most 'heartfelt congratulations'. It read: 'This brings you, your manager and all your support team my most heartfelt congratulations on winning the EUROS 2025. 'For more years than I care to remember, England fans have sung that famous chant 'football's coming home'. 'As you return home with the trophy you won at Wembley three years ago, it is a source of great pride that, through sporting skill and awesome teamwork, the Lionesses have made those words ring true. 'For this, you have my whole family's warmest appreciation and admiration. 'More than that, though, you have shown through your example over past weeks that there are no setbacks so tough that defeat cannot be transformed into victory, even as the final whistle looms. 'Well done, Lionesses. The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can!' William and Charlotte were pictured in Switzerland as the royal family led the nation in wishing good luck to England's Lionesses. Shortly before kick-off, an image of the pair was posted on the Prince and Princess of Wales 's X account with the caption 'let's go, Lionesses'. The Prince of Wales, who is patron of the Football Association (FA), applauded the national anthem as he stood next to Charlotte in the stadium. He was also joined by Sir Keir Starmer and his wife, Victoria. In a show of support ahead of the final, the Band of the Grenadier Guards performed Three Lions on the Buckingham Palace forecourt, while the royal family's official X account posted: 'Wishing the very best of luck to the @Lionesses in the Women's Euro Final this evening.' It comes as the boyfriend of England star Ella Toone backed the Lionesses today ahead of their big game tonight where the squad will seek 'redemption' in the Women's Euro Final. Joe Bunney uploaded a post to social media today which he captioned 'Big day ahead. Redemption time. Come on girls' in reference to the team's nailbiting loss to Spain in the 2023 World Cup Final. Champions! Congratulations @Lionesses — what a team. What a game. What drama. You dug deep when it mattered most and you've made the nation proud. History makers. — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 27, 2025 England fans react as they watch a live broadcast of the Women's Euro final In a post uploaded to X this morning the Royal Family shared a clip of guardsmen performing the iconic England anthem 'It's coming home' outside Buckingham Palace. The accompanying caption read: 'Let's go girls!! Wishing the very best of luck to the Lionesses in the Women's Euro Final this evening.' Downing Street also shared in the football fever as it decked outs its railing with bunting and displayed the flag of St George in its windows. Number 10 said: 'Good luck today, Lionesses. Let's bring it home.'
The Guardian
4 hours ago
- The Guardian
Chloe Kelly the hero again as England beat Spain in Euro 2025 final shootout
So much heart. The Lionesses staked their claim to be considered the greatest English sports team of all time in Basel. They are a team that have changed the very fabric of the country, opened doors and raised their voices loud, and on Sunday evening Chloe Kelly was the hero amid heroes again, converting the winner in a gripping penalty shootout after England had battled back from trailing Spain. Mariona Caldentey's header had given the dominant world champions a first-half lead, but it was cancelled out by Alessia Russo after 57 minutes, Kelly's cross providing the assist, England's ability to come from behind in each of their knockout games a testament to the character of a side that just never gives in. Extra time was a tight affair with few chances but with England being pushed further and further back into their own half. There was no winning goal, though, and in the end Hannah Hampton saved two of Spain's penalties – from Caldentey and Aitana Bonmatí – while Salma Paralluelo put her effort wide. Spain have a style of play so embedded in them from an early age that it is as natural as breathing and, when the support around them matches that, they will be unstoppable. England, though, have the resource, the backing of their federation and the hearts of the nation. Critically, they also have the best manager in world football in Sarina Wiegman, who secured her third back-to-back European title, and a spirit that cannot be shaken. Lauren James was deemed fit to start despite having been forced off with an ankle injury against Italy but the more notable difference to England's lineup was the switch of James and Lauren Hemp to opposite wings. England had clearly taken note of Germany's impressive defensive display in their semi-final against Spain, Hemp dropping back on the outside of Lucy Bronze with the team falling into a back five as Jule Brand had done so effectively, the winger also possessing the pace to get back and cover for the battling right-back when she launched forward. It was a game of chess and Wiegman moved her pieces across the board, having studied Spain's playbook. England started brightly, Russo forcing a save from Cata Coll from a tight angle, with James a little slow to the rebound. Coll's shin then spared Olga Carmona's blushes after Hemp beat her to the ball out from the goalkeeper and attempted to squeeze it in at the near post. Those bright moments were few and far between, Montse Tomé's side predictably dominated possession and it was only a matter of time before they manoeuvred their way through. Caldentey had missed the target from the edge of the area moments before and she made no mistake at the second time of asking, Bonmatí escaped Georgia Stanway on the right, found a threatening Athenea del Castillo who played to Ona Batlle and the full‑back's cross was headed in by the Arsenal player. Shortly after it was determined that the worthwhile gamble on James's fitness had not paid off. The Chelsea forward clearly struggled here and in the 40th minute she was off, following a small period with the medical team as Kelly stripped to her playing kit. Impact sub turned emergency sub, the question was whether Kelly could be as effective as she had been when England were chasing a game late on throughout the tournament. The answer was an empathic yes. The equalising goal was front‑to‑back football, Hampton feeding Keira Walsh, who had all the time in the world, who sent Stanway coasting towards the box, the Bayern Munich player put it wide to Kelly and the Arsenal forward pinged it in for her club teammate Russo to head in. Game on. Russo's time was up less than 15 minutes later, the forward replaced by England's knockout hero Michelle Agyemang, the 19-year-old entrusted with almost 20 minutes of regular time. Spain withdrew Alexia Putellas, much to the Barcelona midfielder's visible frustration in favour of the versatile forward Clàudia Pina. She tested Hampton within minutes, the Chelsea keeper tipping her powerful strike over the bar. Before the game the players' 'proper England' mantra had weaved through the streets of Basel towards the stadium, big red letters on a white background at the front of the fan march, signs declaring a picky tea as better than tapas or jam roly-poly as better than churros (controversial) spoke to the joviality of the occasion. It was big and it was loud. A big win for England in Switzerland has been off the pitch as well as on it. The coming together of the Football Supporters' Association and Football Association to host an England-focused fan park, Lionesses HQ, in Zurich and then before the final in Basel brought together a disparate fanbase, one that had travelled in huge numbers across the tournament. It was a visible representation of the impact of the 2022 win. In many ways it was more impressive than the home European Championship in 2022, the travelling fans muting any concerns over how England would fare without the huge support from the stands. They needed all that support – and more – as extra time came and went, the warrior Bronze forced off with a knee injury on her 140th cap. After the game she revealed that she had played the tournament with a fractured tibia. On to the shootout and, in keeping with England's whole tournament, it had plenty of drama in it. Beth Mead stepped up first but slipped as she converted, VAR ruling that she had touched the ball twice and her retaken effort was saved by Coll. The Spaniard also saved from Leah Williamson but it didn't matter. Patri Guijarro, Alex Greenwood and Niamh Charles all scored but then it was Hampton time with her two saves before Kelly stepped up to write her name in history again.
