Anne-Marie to perform at opening show of Women's Rugby World Cup
Global pop star Anne-Marie will headline the opening show of the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 in the North East, it has been revealed.
The performance will take place at Sunderland's Stadium of Light, just before England faces the USA in the tournament's opening match, on August 22 .
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Fans can purchase tickets now through tickets.rugbyworldcup.com.
The show is presented by O2, and O2 and Virgin Media broadband customers can enter a ballot for a chance to meet Anne-Marie through the Priority app until August 4.
Anne-Marie said: "I'm so excited to perform at the Opening Show presented by O2 and be part of this massive moment for women's sport.
"Now that I've got a daughter of my own, it means even more to be involved in something that shows the next generation that they can do anything.
"I know Sunderland is going to be going crazy, and I can't wait to be part of it."
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Sarah Massey, managing director of the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025, said: "Anne-Marie is an exciting British singer-songwriter celebrated for her powerful vocals, dynamic performances, and genre-blending pop hits, and we are thrilled that she will be opening Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 on 22 August in Sunderland.
"Her music often delves into themes of empowerment, love, and personal growth, resonating with what rugby brings to its communities around the world."
Anne-Marie, known for chart-topping singles including 2002, Friends, and Rockabye, will bring her signature energy to a global stage.
The performance is produced by Live Nation and marks the start of six weeks of international rugby, with 16 teams competing across eight venues in England.
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Gareth Griffiths, director of partnerships and sponsorship at Virgin Media O2, said: "It's impossible to overstate the importance of this tournament for women's rugby, and the opening match is a landmark moment for sports fans everywhere.
"O2 is proud to play its part as an official partner of the Women's Rugby World Cup, and to celebrate the opening match the best way we know how – bringing the worlds of music and sport together."
More than 330,000 tickets have already been sold, with prices starting at £5 for children and £10 for adults.
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