New Look Celtic Challenge Finals Reflect Rising Women’s Rugby World Cup Influence

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - DECEMBER 30: A scrum during a Celtic Challenge match between Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors at the Hive Stadium, on December 30, 2023, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Simon Wootton / SNS Group)

Introducing knock-out rugby for the first time, the league will kick off on Saturday 20 December 2025, with the traditional 10-round league season, culminating in a high-stakes semi-finals and the inaugural Celtic Challenge Final.

Following three seasons of impressive growth, rising stars, and record-breaking performances, the Celtic Challenge has established itself as a pivotal competition in the women’s rugby calendar. With planning already underway for further growth over the coming years, the League has high ambitions.

The 2024/25 season proved once again that the Celtic Challenge is a true talent incubator, with 44 players selected across Women’s Rugby World Cup squads, 73 players making the leap to the Guinness Women’s Six Nations last season, and 64 players named in the U20’s Six Nations Women’s Summer Series back in July.

Gemma Fay, Scottish Rugby Head of Women & Girls Strategy said: “The continued evolution of the Celtic Challenge shows the vital contribution this competition plays in connecting our club game to the international stage. We have already seen the impact that both Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors have had on the Scotland team and this will only grow as the Celtic Challenge does.”

Off the pitch, momentum continues to build. Last season matches broadcast live on BBC, TG4, RugbyPass TV, and YouTube drew record viewership figures, while crowd numbers and digital engagement surged across all channels.

Full details for the 2025/26 season, including team announcements, fixtures, and broadcast coverage, will follow the conclusion of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in October.