The Red Roses' leading players could secure £100,000 a year with England by 2029 if they retain the Women's Rugby World Cup title in Australia under a new four-year compensation agreement with the Rugby Football Union.

The players have achieved a 25% uplift on their prior terms that conclude at the end of June.

After lifting the World Cup before a record 81,885 spectators in September, England have captured eight straight Six Nations crowns and hold a streak of 38 consecutive Test wins.

Although the new terms represent a notable increase, earnings remain below those of counterparts in football and cricket.

England women's cricketers hold annual deals between £90,000 and £130,000, while the Lionesses agreed bonus structures with the Football Association in 2023 after a public disagreement.

Players earned a £20,000 bonus each for the September World Cup triumph, with top stars on a base salary near £50,000 at that stage.

The RFU, which has directed £24m into the Premiership Women's Rugby over the past decade, will review the contracts formally after two years and raise figures if the women's game exceeds commercial targets.

Deals fall into three tiers, with senior players on higher rates. Contract lengths will range from one year to three-year central agreements.

A minimum of 32 Red Roses will receive contracts, with announcements due in the coming fortnight.

Transitional deals will remain available for emerging prospects.

"As Red Roses our goal is always to be the number one team in the world on the field and off it," said captain Meg Jones.

"The investment into our programme and our pathways is critical to that and so this is an important moment for the group and for the game in England.

"The progress we have seen in recent seasons has been remarkable, and this advances matters further. It provides players with added security, opportunity and recognition for representing England.

"Just as importantly, it focuses on the future by investing in a strong player pipeline and ensuring the next generation benefits from an improved platform."

This marks the first Red Roses agreement negotiated by the international players' body Team England Rugby, following prior talks by the Rugby Players Association.