Red Roses Stars and Staff Honoured in King’s New Year List

Several leading figures from England’s World Cup-winning Red Roses squad have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List for 2026, underlining the impact of a historic year for women’s rugby.

Head coach John Mitchell, captain Zoe Stratford and two-time Rugby World Cup winner Marlie Packer have all been appointed Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) following England’s first women’s World Cup triumph in 11 years.

Honours have also gone to vice-captain Megan Jones, dynamic back-rower Sadia Kabeya and reigning Sports Personality of the Year nominee Ellie Kildunne, each of whom has been awarded an MBE.

Recognition extended beyond the playing squad, with Gill Whitehead - chair of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup -receiving an OBE for services to the women’s game. World Cup managing director Sarah Massey has also been named an MBE.

Mitchell paid tribute to the collective effort behind England’s success, emphasising that the award reflected the commitment of the entire squad and support staff rather than individual achievement.

“This honour reflects the work of a World Cup-winning group that was built on shared standards, trust and relentless effort,” Mitchell said. “From the players and coaches to the wider RFU team, every contribution mattered. I accept this on behalf of everyone involved in that campaign.”

Stratford’s recognition follows a remarkable year in which she captained England to a seventh successive Guinness Women’s Six Nations title, a fourth consecutive Grand Slam, and ultimately World Cup glory.

The England skipper described the honour as a shared moment, highlighting the support she received from family, teammates and fans throughout the year.

“The recognition isn’t mine alone,” Stratford said. “I’ve been surrounded by incredible people who have given everything to the Red Roses. Our supporters have made this journey unforgettable, and their passion continues to drive the growth of the women’s game.”

RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney also welcomed the honours, praising the wider influence of the Red Roses’ success on and off the pitch.

“These awards recognise a defining year for women’s rugby in England,” he said. “The Red Roses have set new standards, inspired communities nationwide and helped shape a future where the women’s game can thrive at every level.”

As 2025 draws to a close, the honours list serves as further recognition of a landmark period for English women’s rugby - one that continues to leave a lasting legacy well beyond the World Cup victory.