Ilona Maher Joins Bristol Bears, Drawing Unprecedented Attention to Women's Rugby

The American rugby star and social media sensation is set to make her Premiership Women’s Rugby debut, boosting the league's visibility and challenging its financial norms.

Ilona Maher, a 28-year-old U.S. rugby star with nearly 8 million followers, has signed a three-month contract with the Bristol Bears to elevate her 15s game ahead of the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
Her debut match on January 5 against Gloucester-Hartpury has been moved to the 27,000-capacity Ashton Gate stadium due to overwhelming ticket demand, showcasing her significant fan influence.
Maher’s social media reach, built on body positivity and relatable content, has brought unprecedented attention to women’s rugby, surpassing the visibility of many male players in the sport.
While her arrival is expected to boost the league’s popularity and revenue, it has also reignited discussions about the financial disparity in women’s rugby, as her social media manager will reportedly earn more than some players under the league's salary cap.
Maher, who gained fame through the Paris Olympics, Sports Illustrated, and 'Dancing with the Stars,' aims to use her platform to attract younger audiences and grow rugby’s global appeal.

EssentiallySports