The British & Irish Lions have formally confirmed their inaugural Women’s Tour — and with England crowned world champions at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, expectations are already running high for a squad heavy with Red Roses.

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The tour will take place in September 2027 in New Zealand, featuring three Test matches against the Black Ferns, plus additional pre‑Test fixtures (schedule still to be finalised).

Lions chair and former Wales winger Ieuan Evans described the move as “a key development for women’s rugby and women’s sport in general.” Lions chief executive Ben Calveley added:

“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 January 2024 feasibility study examining everything from brand strength, commercial value, logistics, and spectator interest.

World Cup success cements England’s dominance — and shapes Lions projections

The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup concluded in emphatic fashion: England defeated Canada 33–13 in front of a record crowd of ~81,885 at Twickenham, securing their third world title. That victory not only confirmed England’s status as the sport’s dominant force but also significantly affects expectations around the composition and ambitions of the first Lions women’s squad.

In the lead‑up to the tour announcement, speculation has already centred on John Mitchell — who coached the Red Roses to their 2025 triumph — taking the reins for the Lions. Mitchell has publicly expressed openness to the role, now that he has led England through a flawless campaign under his tenure. With England’s depth, track record, and professional structures, the Lions roster is widely expected to be dominated by England players, backed by contributions from Wales, Ireland, and Scotland.

Mitchell’s willingness to take up the dual challenge reflects the gravity of the opportunity:

“The Lions is a huge honour… That is definitely something I would consider.”

Tour context and significance

The Lions have long toured internationally since 1888, but until now only in the men’s game — rotating destinations among New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia. The women’s side now steps into that legacy, offering a new platform and prestige. Hosts New Zealand Rugby have welcomed the prospect. NZR CEO Mark Robinson said:

“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.
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.”

The 2027 tour has already secured sponsorship backing, a strong signal of commercial confidence in women’s rugby.

Challenges, opportunities and legacy

The timing is auspicious. The World Cup has helped push women’s rugby into the spotlight: the 2025 tournament has been hailed as “the greatest of all time,” with record attendances, viewership, and momentum. Yet this success also brings responsibility. Expectations on the Lions — especially with a likely England‑centred roster — will be intense.

For the British & Irish Lions women, 2027 is more than a tour: it is a statement of intent. After more than a century of men’s tradition, the Lions women will get their chance to write a new chapter — one shaped by the rising tide of women’s rugby, driven by world champions, and coached by one of the sport’s most accomplished leaders.

EDITORS PICKS:

BBC Sports Personality of the Year shortlist: Six favourites for the award

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) award celebrates exceptional British athletes who have captivated the public with their performances.

As we approach the 2025 ceremony, several athletes have emerged as strong contenders. Here’s a look at the top favourites and their current betting odds:

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BBC Sports Personality of the Year (Latest Odds)

6. Luke Littler – Darts

Odds: 50/1. At just 17 years old, Littler became the youngest darts world champion in history, defeating Michael van Gerwen in the 2025 World Championship final.

His breakthrough has made him a rising star in the sport, though darts has a smaller SPOTY audience compared to football or rugby, placing him lower in the rankings.

5. Hannah Hampton – Football (England & Aston Villa)

Odds: 25/1. Hampton played a crucial role in England’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 triumph, saving two penalties in the final against Spain.

Her heroics in goal were vital to England’s success, but goalkeepers often receive less recognition than high-profile goal-scorers, keeping her further down the list.

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