Bristol Bears Women have pulled off one of the biggest signings in women’s rugby by securing the services of England superstar Ellie Kildunne ahead of the 2026/27 season.
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The reigning World Rugby Player of the Year arrives at Ashton Gate as one of the sport’s most recognisable names, adding serious firepower to Bristol’s ambitions of challenging for major honours.
Kildunne has been a key figure for England during one of the most successful periods in Red Roses history, helping her country to multiple Guinness Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam titles and playing a starring role during the Rugby World Cup campaign that culminated in last year’s final at Allianz Stadium.
Her influence extends far beyond rugby. In 2025, Kildunne finished runner-up in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, underlining her growing status as one of Britain’s leading sporting stars.
Speaking about the move, Kildunne said Bristol’s attacking style and ambition made the club an easy choice.
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“Bristol Bears feels like the perfect club for me at this stage of my career,” she said.
“The way the team plays is hugely exciting and completely aligned with how I want to express myself on the pitch. Bristol has built a fantastic brand in women’s rugby. It’s a club that’s ambitious, innovative and isn’t afraid to do things differently.”
Bears head coach Scott Lawson described the signing as a major statement.
“Signing Ellie is a huge statement of intent,” Lawson said.
“She is not only one of the finest talents on the planet, but also a player who inspires people far beyond rugby. We’re thrilled she has chosen Bristol as the next chapter in her career.”
The signing is likely to be viewed as one of the biggest transfers in the history of the women’s game.
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Ellie Kildunne: 10 Things to Know About England’s Six Nations star
1. Early beginnings in Yorkshire
Ellie Kildunne was born on 8 September 1999 in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England. She began playing rugby at seven, initially in rugby league before switching to rugby union at nine. Her early dedication set the stage for her rapid rise in the sport.
2. Dual-code roots
Kildunne is a versatile player who has excelled in both rugby union and rugby sevens. She represented England in sevens between 2018 and 2020, and later played for Great Britain in 2024. This experience makes her adaptable across formats and tactical systems.
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3. Club career trajectory
- Began with Gloucester-Hartpury in 2017–2018.
- Played for Wasps during the 2020–2021 season.
- Since 2021, she has been a star at Harlequins Women.
- 2025 left to sign with Bristol bears
