Overview
- The signing was confirmed on Friday, June 19, 2026, ending Kildunne’s weeks-long uncertainty after she left Harlequins earlier this month.
- Kildunne is one of the game’s top players with about 62 England caps, roughly 48 tries, a 2025 World Cup winner title, a World Player of the Year award, a BBC SPOTY second place and an MBE.
- Kildunne said she chose Bristol because its running style fits how she wants to play and because the club offers support for players’ off-field activities.
- Head coach Scott Lawson called the transfer “a huge statement of intent,” reflecting Bristol’s recent push to recruit high-profile internationals to accelerate competitiveness and profile after finishing eighth last season.
- Kildunne will join several England teammates at Ashton Gate, a move that could boost Bristol’s on-field cohesion, fan interest and commercial reach next season.