Inaugural Lions Women’s Tour Set for September 2027 in New Zealand
In a groundbreaking move, the British & Irish Lions have officially revealed plans for the inaugural Lions Women’s Tour, set to take place in New Zealand in September 2027. The Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series will see the Lions Women’s team facing off against the current world champions, the Black Ferns, in three Tests along with pre-Test fixtures.
The announcement comes after a comprehensive feasibility study, funded by Lions Founding Partner Royal London, concluded that 2027 is the optimal time for the historic tour. The study delved into various aspects, including brand development, commercial viability, financial considerations, spectator experience, logistical challenges, and scheduling complexities.
The British & Irish Lions are actively collaborating with key stakeholders, including constituent Unions, World Rugby, and various leagues, to finalize the full tour details, including the schedule. Importantly, the Lions Women’s Tour will align with the women’s global competition window in September 2027, ensuring it does not overlap with the men’s Rugby World Cup.
The Tour will be a significant milestone for women’s rugby, marking a momentous step forward in the growth and recognition of the women’s game. The selection of New Zealand as the preferred tour destination followed a thorough host selection process, and further details about the tour are expected to be revealed in due course.
Major commercial partnerships have also been unveiled to support the Lions Women’s Tour, underscoring the significance of the event for women’s rugby and sports in general. Royal London, the UK’s largest life, pensions, and investments mutual, is confirmed as the Founding Partner of the Lions Women’s Team, also becoming the front-of-jersey sponsor for the official jersey.
Royal London’s commitment extends beyond sponsorship, as they will invest in player development across The British & Irish Lions constituent Unions through a special elite players’ Pathways Funding grant. This investment aims to support the growth of women’s rugby at both elite and grassroots levels in Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and England.
Howden, a leading global insurance group, has been announced as the Series Title Partner for the historic Lions Women’s Tour, leading to the tour being named the Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series. The partnership with Howden extends their support for The British & Irish Lions, as they also serve as the official front-of-jersey sponsor for the upcoming 2025 Lions Men’s Tour to Australia.
Ben Calveley, CEO of the British & Irish Lions, expressed excitement about the tour, emphasizing the strategic priority of supporting the growth of the women’s game. Calveley praised the collaboration of the constituent Unions, acknowledging the support and commitment shown throughout the journey. He also thanked World Rugby for the regulatory reforms that made the tour possible in 2027.
The Lions Women’s Tour is expected to be a thrilling sporting spectacle, with three Test matches against the Black Ferns in New Zealand, a nation known for its rugby passion. Further collaboration with stakeholders, including New Zealand Rugby, is anticipated to bring an exciting inaugural tour to fruition, continuing the rich history of the Lions on a new stage.
Ieuan Evans, Chairperson of the British & Irish Lions, highlighted the key development for women’s rugby and expressed gratitude towards partners, stakeholders, and New Zealand Rugby for their roles in bringing the concept to reality. New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson expressed the country’s eagerness to host the historic tour, building on the success of hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2022.
Royal London Ambassador and former England International Shaunagh Brown praised the announcement as a significant moment for women’s rugby, allowing current players and aspiring athletes to dream of wearing the iconic red jersey. Brown also emphasized the positive impact of Royal London’s investment in player development and grassroots rugby for women and girls.
Susie Logan, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Royal London, expressed pride in being part of the team delivering the first-ever Lions Women’s Tour. The partnership with the Lions allows Royal London to continue championing and supporting women’s rugby at all levels, making a lasting impact for current and future generations.
David Howden, Founder and CEO of Howden Group, commended the upward trajectory of women’s rugby and affirmed Howden’s pride in supporting the historic Lions Women’s Tour. Howden’s longstanding involvement in community and elite rugby aligns with their commitment to the growth and success of women’s rugby, as evidenced by their support for the Lions Women’s Series.
As anticipation builds over the next couple of years, the Lions Women’s Tour is set to be a transformative moment for women’s rugby, showcasing top-level competition and fostering the continued growth and success of the women’s game.
