First Women's British & Irish Lions Tour Set for 2026

The countdown is officially on for one of the most exciting moments in women's sports history.

On September 11, 2026, the first British and Irish Lions women's team will run onto the field at Auckland's Go Media Stadium to face the six-time world champion Black Ferns. It's a moment that seemed impossible just a few years ago, and now it's less than 12 months away.

The Lions will spend a full month touring the length of New Zealand, playing five matches across both islands. After opening in Whangarei, they'll head to Auckland for the historic first Test, then travel through Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch for the remaining matches.

Former England captain Jo Yapp will make her own bit of history as the Lions' first-ever women's head coach. She's been clear about her approach: no token selections, just the best players available from England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.

The tour was announced back in 2024, giving officials three years to plan something truly special. New Zealand Rugby called it "a significant moment for rugby globally," while Lions chief executive Ben Calveley described it as "hugely significant" for the women's game.

The Ripple Effect

This tour represents far more than five rugby matches. It's validation that women's rugby deserves the same prestige and tradition as the men's game, which has featured Lions tours since 1888.

Over 124,000 fans are expected to attend the matches in person, with ticket packages already available and general sales launching later this month. That's a massive vote of confidence in women's rugby's drawing power.

The tour is also creating opportunities at every level. A pre-tour fixture in the UK is planned, coaching appointments will be announced soon, and the 2026 Women's Six Nations will serve as the selection tournament for the historic squad announcement next May.

Even New Zealand is feeling the positive pressure. After hosting a successful 2022 Women's Rugby World Cup, the country is working to build on that momentum and create a sustainable fanbase for women's rugby.

For the players who earn selection, wearing the famous red Lions jersey will be the pinnacle of their careers. England's Meg Jones is already being mentioned as a frontrunner to captain the side, though nothing is certain until after the Six Nations.

The timing couldn't be better for women's rugby to take center stage and show the world what it's truly capable of.