The British and Irish Lions have just unveiled groundbreaking plans for their inaugural women’s tour, set to take place in New Zealand in 2027. Scheduled for September, this historic tour will feature three intense Test matches against the formidable six-time world champion Black Ferns.
The decision to embark on this groundbreaking journey was informed by a comprehensive feasibility study generously funded by Lions Founding Partner Royal London.
This study delved into critical elements essential for orchestrating a successful Lions Women’s Tour, encompassing brand development, commercial viability, financial considerations, spectator engagement, logistical intricacies, and scheduling logistics.
Following the study, a meticulous Tour host selection process unfolded, ultimately designating New Zealand as the preferred Tour destination. Stay tuned for forthcoming announcements, as further details regarding this groundbreaking Tour are expected to be revealed in due course.
Ben Calveley, CEO, British & Irish Lions said: “Supporting the growth of the women’s game is a key strategic priority for The British & Irish Lions as it is for each of our Unions. Significant effort has gone into exploring the concept of a Lions Women’s Tour and great credit needs to go to the members of our steering committee, our board, and our staff.
“In particular, I want to recognise the collaboration of our four Unions and thank them for their continued support and the level of commitment they have shown throughout this journey. I would also like to thank World Rugby for the reforms to regulation 9 which makes this Tour possible in 2027.
We are also very grateful to all the clubs as well as wider stakeholders who have all been very supportive and accommodating during this process. We look forward to collaborating further with all stakeholders over the coming months to finalise plans for this historic Tour.
“It is also significant that we are announcing two major commercial partnerships for the Lions Women’s Tour today which is recognition of the huge potential of the Tour, the desire for large brands and organisations to be associated with it, as well as the growth of women’s rugby.
“Royal London has been an outstanding partner to The British & Irish Lions and a consistent advocate both for this Tour and for the women’s game. Their aim is to make a positive impact on women’s rugby and continue its growth and success story and we are honoured to have them on board.”
Telegraph selects 2025 Lions squad, leaves out Owen Farrell and Louis Rees-Zammit
After Andy Farrell’s appointment as the head coach for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, the focus naturally shifts to speculating about the potential squad members.
Here’s a glimpse into the 37-man touring party according to The Telegraph:
Loosehead-props:
- Andrew Porter (Ireland)
- Ellis Genge (England)
- Pierre Schoeman (Scotland)
Hookers:
- Dewi Lake (Wales)
- Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
- George Turner (Scotland)
Tighthead-props:
- Zander Fagerson (Scotland)
- Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
- Asher Opoku-Fordjour (England)
Locks:
- George Martin (England)
- Maro Itoje (England)
- James Ryan (Ireland)
- Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
- Will Rowlands (Wales)
- Iain Henderson (Ireland)