The British and Irish Lions are weighing up a major shift in their iconic touring model, with new destinations such as France, the Americas, and Japan under serious consideration.
According to reports from The Telegraph, the Lions are exploring options beyond their traditional rotation of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa — a system that has remained unchanged since 1989, when Australia was first included as a standalone tour destination.
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Breaking Away from Tradition?
For nearly four decades, the Lions have toured the three SANZAAR nations on a strict four-year cycle. However, only three times in history has a different country hosted a full Lions tour — Argentina in 1910, 1927, and 1936. While one-off matches have been played against nations like France and Fiji, a full departure from the established rotation would mark a significant evolution.
New Zealand is already confirmed to host the 2029 tour, but beyond that, the future looks far less certain.
The “Beyond29” Project
The Lions have launched what they are calling the “Beyond29” project, signaling a strategic review of their long-term touring structure. A formal “request for proposal” has been sent to consultancy firms, asking for fresh ideas on how the team should operate after 2029.
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Internal documents reveal the Lions are seeking expert input to:
- Develop and validate a new operating model
- Explore expansion into new global markets
- Increase commercial value and audience reach
There is also an acknowledgment that the current model may be nearing its financial ceiling, with the organisation keen to unlock new growth opportunities.
Key Areas Under Review
Consultants have been asked to provide recommendations across four critical areas:
- Geography – Potential new host nations and regions
- Host selection process – How future tours are allocated
- Timing – Whether the current four-year cycle should change
- Match scheduling – Structure and format of fixtures
Rugby Fans Vote for the Greatest British & Irish Lions XV of All Time
Over 207,000 votes were counted following a public poll based on a shortlist curated by a panel of rugby experts. Here’s the fan-selected all-time Lions team by position, including percentage of the vote and key highlights from each player’s legendary career.
🏉 Fullback: JPR Williams (Wales) – 72%
Runner-up: Gavin Hastings (Scotland) – 10%
Also in contention: Jason Robinson (England) – 10%
JPR Williams was instrumental in the 1971 and 1974 tours, boasting a remarkable record of five Test wins, two draws, and just one loss. His fearless playing style and consistency at the back earned him legendary status.
🏉 Winger: Gerald Davies (Wales) – 21%
Runner-up: JJ Williams (Wales) – 19%
Part of the iconic Welsh contingent of the 1968 and 1971 Lions squads, Davies later returned to serve as tour manager in 2009. A pacey and intelligent winger who was vital during the Lions’ successful tours.
🏉 Winger: Jason Robinson (England) – 22%
Runner-up: Tony O’Reilly (Ireland) – 9%
Known for his dazzling footwork and explosive speed, Robinson made an immediate impact during the 2001 tour to Australia, scoring a stunning solo try in the first Test against the Wallabies.
🛡️ Outside Centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland) – 43%
Runner-up: Will Greenwood (England) – 4%
Arguably Ireland’s greatest-ever player, O’Driscoll toured four times (2001–2013) and captained the Lions in 2005. His attacking flair was pivotal in the 2001 series win in Australia.
🛡️ Inside Centre: Jeremy Guscott (England) – 20%
Runner-up: Mike Gibson (Ireland) – 15%
Dubbed “The Prince of Centres,” Guscott’s crowning moment came in 1997 when he kicked the series-winning drop goal against South Africa in the second Test.
