Why Do the British and Irish Lions Wear Red? Fans Are Just Finding Out

Thursday, 17 July 2025 at 10:43

byRugby Rucker

It’s a question that’s stumped fans for years — why exactly do the British & Irish Lions run out in red?

The answer? It’s all about unity. The iconic jersey was chosen to bring together four rugby powerhouses — England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales — under one bold, unmistakable kit.

The red shirt, white shorts, and blue socks with a green turnover have been the go-to combo since the 1950 tour of New Zealand, with each colour proudly representing one of the Home Nations.

But it wasn’t always this way. Back in 1888, the Lions rocked blue and red hoops on a white base, complete with white shorts and blue socks. Fast forward to 1910, and a navy jersey with a white collar and red socks became the norm — until the red revolution began.

But not everyone was happy.

The all-blue shirt worn during the controversial 1930 tour of New Zealand caused a major stir. The colour clashed with the All Blacks’ kit, forcing them to wear white for the first time in their history. Irish lock George Beamish also questioned the lack of green, prompting the addition of green turnovers on the socks.

The outbreak of WWII paused Lions tours, and when they returned to action in 1950, so did a new-look kit. Determined to avoid another kit clash with New Zealand, the Lions switched from blue to red – and the rest is history.

That famous red jersey has remained ever since, with only subtle changes like sponsor logos and kit supplier tweaks. Nike became the first official kit partner in 1993, while Scottish Provident was the first front-of-shirt sponsor in 1997.

One jersey. Four nations. A legacy stitched in red.

Three Bold Changes That Would Instantly Improve the Lions Starting Line-up

The British & Irish Lions have made history with an all-Scottish 10-12-13 axis for the first time ever when they take on Australia in Brisbane this Saturday.

Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones will pull the strings in midfield, with head coach Andy Farrell opting for a bold playmaking spine. The rest of the starting XV is made up entirely of Irish and English players, as no Welshmen have made the matchday 23.

It’s the first time since 1896 the Lions have named a squad to face Australia, New Zealand or South Africa without a single player from Wales.

There were three selections that fans seemingly didn’t agree with—and social media has been ablaze ever since the squad was announced.

Fan fury: Jac Morgan axed

The biggest talking point? The omission of Jac Morgan, who many tipped as a nailed-on starter after a standout tour.

It's a selection bombshell that’s ended over a century of Welsh involvement in Lions Test matches—stretching all the way back to 1899.

One of the most consistent performers in Welsh rugby, Jac Morgan has captained his country and stood out as a breakdown beast. His work rate, defensive engine, and ability to carry hard in traffic have made him a fan favourite. Many felt his form on tour warranted a starting Lions spot—or at the very least, a place on the bench.

One fan wrote:
"No Morgan?! What more could he have done?”

Another said: “Not even on the bench—this is a joke!”

Another added: “Where’s Morgan, Pollock, Chessum? The selection reeks of bias.”

Another said: “Morgan’s in the form of his life and Farrell literally said ‘he can play wherever he wants’… then doesn’t pick him!”

Another slammed it as: "No Jac Morgan is laughable, been the best 7 on tour by a country mile."

Controversial picks spark backlash

A hybrid forward with serious mobility and grit, Ollie Chessum has gone from under-the-radar to must-pick in record time. His athleticism and form on tour impressed, and fans were stunned to see him left out of the starting XV.

Tadhg Beirne keeps his place in the second row, but many fans feel Ollie Chessum has outplayed him throughout the tour. The England forward only makes the bench.

One fan wrote: “Beirne starting ahead of Chessum? This squad feels like it’s based on past reputation, not current form.”

Another said: "Mental how Chessum ain’t starting"

Another added: "Chessum 100% deserved a start"

Duhan vs Freeman debate ignites

Another contentious call saw Tommy Freeman picked ahead of Duhan van der Merwe, despite the Scotland winger scoring a hat-trick in the final warm-up game.

A true powerhouse, van der Merwe blends size, speed, and finishing ability like few others. After a quiet start to the tour, he exploded back into form with a hat-trick in the final warm-up game. Despite his pedigree, he’s been left out of the starting line-up—leaving many fans scratching their heads.