Lions announce historic women’s tour for 2027
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - JUNE 08: The British and Irish Lions badge for the tour during the British and Irish Lions training session at Northwood School on June 8, 2009 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
The British and Irish Lions will send their first ever women’s team to New Zealand for a tour in September 2027.
A statement on the Lions website confirmed that the tour will include a three test series against the reigning world champions, as well as a series of warm-up matches.
The full schedule for the trip has not been revealed, though the tour will not clash with the men’s Rugby World Cup to be held in the same year.
Ben Calveley, chief executive officer of the 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.”
The announcement follows a feasibility study which included considerations of the brand, commercial, financial, spectator, logistical, and scheduling possibilities.
Following this process, New Zealand was seen as the best destination for the tour.
“When the opportunity arose to be part of history and have the honour of hosting the inaugural British & Irish Lions Women’s Tour, we knew we wanted to be part of it,” said New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson.
“Women’s rugby is growing at pace in New Zealand and following the success of the Rugby World Cup in 2022, we know the excitement world-class competition can generate.”
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