Nike to kit out British & Irish Lions Women for historic 2027 tour

The British & Irish Lions have announced a landmark new partnership with Nike, which will see the global sportswear giant become the Official Kit Supplier for the Lions’ inaugural Women’s team ahead of their first-ever tour in 2027.

As part of the agreement, Nike will also serve as a Principal Partner of the Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series 2027, which will see the Lions travel to New Zealand for a historic series that marks a major milestone in the development of women’s rugby.

Nike will provide all performance, training and leisurewear for the Lions Women’s squad and the official touring party throughout the 2027 tour. Supporters will also be able to get behind the team, with lifestyle and training collections set to be released later this year. An initial range is available now at the Lions Official Store.

The partnership marks Nike’s first involvement with the Lions since the famous Men’s Tour to New Zealand in 1993, and the two organisations are now working closely on the design of the women’s match kit, training wear and leisure ranges. The aim is to deliver industry-leading innovation, performance and style across every piece of apparel connected to the tour.

Nike will also play a key role off the field, becoming a principal partner of the Lions Origins Clubs and Schools programme alongside Howden. The initiative supports grassroots rugby across the UK and Ireland and has helped guide young players on their journeys toward the highest levels of the game.

Lions CEO Ben Calveley said the partnership represents a major step forward as preparations continue for the first Women’s Lions Tour.

“We are delighted to confirm this milestone partnership with Nike as we prepare for the inaugural Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series to New Zealand in 2027,” he said. “Anticipation is building for this historic tour, which is now just over 18 months away. The creation of the first ever Lions Women’s jersey represents a hugely significant moment in our history. The famous red jersey is embedded in our DNA, and working with Nike, one of the world’s leading sports brands, to develop the kit that will be worn in New Zealand will be incredibly special.”

The Lions Women will wear their inaugural match jersey for all fixtures on the 2027 tour, with Royal London confirmed as the front-of-shirt partner. Nike x Lions branded apparel is now on sale via the Lions Rugby Store, with further ranges to be launched later in the year.

Together, Nike and The British & Irish Lions aim to use the partnership to inspire rugby fans worldwide and help drive continued growth and momentum in the women’s game.