The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has defended its decision to fly England’s women to the World Cup in New Zealand via economy class.
England’s men travelled in business class with British Airways to the 2019 World Cup in Japan, but the women’s team have not been afforded the same luxury.
The Red Roses are the favourites to win the World Cup and are currently on a record win streak of 25 matches. Yet, the RFU have stressed the women’s side is loss-making and that the organisation is limited in what it can invest in.
Back in 2018, British Airways was announced as the Official Airline Partner to England rugby, with the company to fly the “Men’s and Women’s squads to tournaments around the world.” A statement at the time read: “The partnership will see British Airways fly the England Men’s and Women’s teams to matches all around the world, including to Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan and Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2021.” However, this was before New Zealand were named as hosts of the women’s tournament. @British_Airways, dis you?