Summer of Sport

Jill Scott helps kick off a sizzling Summer of Sport
We’ve had plenty of sunny days this summer and the weather has been matched by some red-hot sport. English football fans are still buzzing over the Lionesses’ successful defence of the Women’s Euros title with a dramatic win over Spain. The heart-stopping match featured a second-half equaliser scored by Alessia Russo and a penalty shootout that ended with a tournament-winning spot kick by Chloe Kelly. The competition in Switzerland also saw Wales qualify for their first-ever major tournament, an achievement that’s certain to inspire the team to new heights.
The Summer of Sport continues to sizzle in August with the 10th installment of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Kicking off on 22nd August and running until 27th September, the tournament features 16 national teams and takes place in eight cities across England. The host side’s success at top-tier events such as the Women’s Six Nations means England will go into the competition as favourites. But they’ll face stiff opposition from the likes of New Zealand who beat them in the World Cup final in 2022. Wales and Scotland will also be vying for top honours against favoured contenders such as Canada, France, and Australia.
The summer’s thrilling action in Switzerland and England can be seen as the culmination of three decades of National Lottery support that has transformed women's sport from the grassroots up. To celebrate 30 years of The National Lottery and the £30Million raised for Good Causes every week by its players, we're showcasing how £6.8BN has revolutionised women and girls' sport across the UK.
As part of that effort, we’ve teamed up with former Lionesses midfielder Jill Scott on a very special campaign with ITV. This campaign highlights the huge impact of National Lottery funding on grassroots sport. The ad features Jill alongside some incredible players who have all benefited from National Lottery funding. Watch the ad below.
Chasing dreams with Jill Scott
Watch Jill Scott, one of England’s most decorated players, explain how more than £6BN of National Lottery funding for grassroots sport projects is helping discover the stars of tomorrow.
Published 29th June 2025. Updated 29th July 2025.

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