Women's British & Irish Lions Tour Confirmed for 2027

Rugby just made history by putting a date on the calendar for something that's been 135 years in the making.

The British and Irish Lions announced the full schedule for their first-ever women's tour, confirming five matches across New Zealand in September 2027. The Lions, a combined team of the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, will face the Black Ferns in three Test matches in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

The tour kicks off September 4 in Whangārei with a warm-up match against Black Ferns XV. Two weeks later, the historic first Test match takes place in Auckland, followed by games in Hamilton, Wellington, and finishing in Christchurch on September 25.

Lions CEO Ben Calveley called it "a hugely significant milestone" that makes the dream feel real for both fans planning their trips and players imagining themselves pulling on that famous red jersey. The tour timing was carefully chosen to fall during the women's global competition window, giving it the spotlight it deserves.

New Zealand Rugby deliberately planned the route from north to south so as many communities as possible could participate in the historic event. With over 120,000 fans expected to attend, this won't just be a rugby series. It will be a celebration felt across the entire country.

The Ripple Effect

This tour represents more than just adding women to an existing tradition. It creates a new pathway for young girls who can now dream of achieving rugby's ultimate honor. The British and Irish Lions tour happens only every four years and represents the pinnacle of rugby achievement, combining rivals into teammates for one legendary journey.

The announcement also promises a historic pre-tour fixture involving the Lions, with details coming later in 2025. Kick-off times for all matches will be confirmed throughout the year, giving fans plenty of time to plan their once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Women's rugby has exploded in popularity over recent years, with the 2022 Women's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand drawing record television audiences. This tour builds on that momentum, giving the sport's best players a stage worthy of their talent.

For 135 years, the Lions toured as men only, but September 2027 marks the beginning of a new chapter where the next generation will grow up knowing the Lions jersey belongs to everyone.