King’s New Year Honours List comes under fire over excluded rugby stars
King's New Year Honours List comes under fire over excluded stars
Six members of the World Cup-winning England squad of 2025 have been named on the King’s New Year Honours List, but not everyone is pleased.
Fans are naturally thrilled for those selected, which include head coach John Mitchell, captain Zoe Stratford, Marlie Packer, Megan Jones, Sadia Kabeya and Ellie Kildunne, but there are some serious question marks over why others have been excluded.
A squad of 32 players, plus numerous support staff behind the scenes, all contributed to England’s success. This raises the question, why were these six selected, whilst others – in this famous team game – excluded from the list?
The 2025 World Cup captivated the nation in a way that women’s rugby had never done before. Attendance records were obliterated, stars were created, and new fans started to follow the game.
Whilst it’s true that certain names stand out more than others, whether that’s due to performances on the field or social media presence off of it, the game of rugby cannot be won by just a few. It takes a team.
It was a close-knit team that won the World Cup, and a closer-knit team that celebrated afterwards. Whilst the line does indeed need to be drawn somewhere, each player deserves the respect of being seen as equals.
England boss Mitchell ensured this message was loud and clear, saying: “I am incredibly honoured to receive this recognition, but I want to be clear that it reflects the work of the Red Roses World Cup-winning squad and the outstanding staff around them.
“That campaign was built on collective effort – starting from the leaders making it real with players who set the standards every day, coaches and performance staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and a wider RFU support team whose contribution often goes unseen but is absolutely vital. It was a privilege to be part of such a committed, driven and united group.”
Fans reaction
In 2003, all England players received awards following their World Cup victory, so why not the same for the ladies?
Well, fans online have been asking the same questions. Here’s a small sample from the official England Rugby Facebook comment section:
Dave Tomkins: “All the World Cup winners in 2003 got MBEs, with Jonny and Martin Johnson getting OBEs. So why not our amazing Roses?”
Rod Wrenn: “The team were great, not sure about honours for a few”
Tan Trappitt: “Congratulations to all those who got awards, but like other people, I think more should be recognised. Baby Dow was fantastic on and off the pitch and did so much for sporting spirit with her gifts to the other teams, etc.”
Sarah Louise: “Great for those nominated, but I think there should have been a lot more in there”
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A team game
This takes nothing away from the incredible achievements of those awarded; in fact, those selected have chosen to share it with those around them.
Stratford said: “Being named on the King’s New Year honours, alongside some of my amazing teammates, is a special privilege.
“The recognition isn’t mine alone. This year I have felt nothing but love and support from so many people and I am extremely grateful.
“My family’s belief in me on this journey has been unrivalled, and I am also fortunate to have been surrounded by an unbelievable group of players and staff who have given everything to the Red Roses.
“The fans have made this year even more exceptional than I thought imaginable. Their constant energy and enthusiasm has been out of this world and will no doubt continue to contribute to the growth of the women’s game.
“As Red Roses, our aim is always to inspire. We hope we will continue to do so in 2026 and make people all over the country incredibly proud.”
The RFU backed up the wider group’s achievements, with Chief Executive, Bill Sweeney, saying: “On behalf of everyone at the RFU, I would like to congratulate all those who have been honoured. Each played an integral role during a defining year for women’s rugby in this country, and the recognition they have received is thoroughly deserved.
“These individual honours reflect the collective efforts of the entire squad and the wider support team. The Red Roses’ influence on societal change on the women’s game has been exponential. This outstanding group has set exemplary standards on and off the field, inspiring and connecting with people across the country. Their combined contribution has helped to shape a future in which women’s rugby can thrive, from grassroots to elite level.
“As a memorable 2025 draws to a close, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved and look forward to what the New Year will bring.”