Rugby sculpture unveiled ahead of home World Cup

Sculptor Olivier Jamin created the huge rugby ball

A new giant rugby ball sculpture has been unveiled in the game's birthplace ahead of the start of the Women's World Cup.

The sculpture, designed by Birmingham-based artist Olivier Jamin, has been placed outside Rugby Railway Station.

Commissioned by Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, the artwork aims to celebrate women from the town who became sporting stars, from Olympic medallists to international hockey players.

Host nation England will open the 2025 World Cup against the USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland later.

Situated at the entrance to the station, the sculpture was unveiled by Maggie O'Rourke, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for partnerships and wellbeing, on Thursday.

The design on the ball features Rugby sporting stars including Judy Simpson, who won gold in the heptathlon at the Commonwealth Games in 1986 and went on to star as Nightshade in the television series Gladiators.

It also includes Olympic gold medal-winning rower Lauren Henry and Kimberley Woods, who took two Olympic kayaking bronze medals in Paris.

Mr O'Rourke said he was "delighted the new rugby ball sculpture celebrates the magnificent sporting achievements of Rugby women" as the borough prepares to celebrate the world cup's kick-off.

"The tournament promises to inspire a new generation of women rugby players, both in the birthplace of the game and beyond, and the legendary names featured on the new sculpture show where ambition, hard work and dedication can take you when you reach for the stars," he said.