The Women's Rugby World Cup showcases competing nations, revealing stark financial disparities among athletes. For instance, half of Samoa's squad is fundraising for mortgages and bills. While World Rugby covers travel and accommodation, Samoa offers allowances but lacks player contracts. Athletes like Nina Foaese, a mother of three, express gratitude for community support. In contrast, home nations provide contracts ranging from 15,000 to 48,000, with New Zealand players enjoying substantial benefits. This disparity highlights the financial challenges faced by many athletes in the tournament.
Foaese, who works as a support youth worker outside of rugby, said: It was overwhelming, I didn't expect the donations I have received. I was truly grateful and surprised about how much people wanted to sponsor me because I have never done something like this before.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to do it, but [someone said] you might need help living-wise and to make sure the kids were sorted while I was away.
The four home nations all have player contracts in place. England's 32 deals range from 39,000 to 48,000 and players receive 1,500 per match.
Samoa are giving players allowances throughout the tournament, they do not have player contracts in place.
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