Women’s British & Irish Lions 2027 Tour: Dates and Location

The Women’s British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand will begin in 2027, according to confirmed plans from the British & Irish Lions organization. The announcement, made during a media conference, marks the first-ever international tour for the women’s team, which will face the New Zealand national squad in a series of matches. The exact schedule and venues for the tour have not yet been finalized, but the event is expected to align with the men’s Lions tour structure, which typically includes a mix of test matches, regional games, and exhibition fixtures.

The decision to launch a women’s tour follows growing global interest in women’s rugby, particularly in New Zealand, where the sport has seen increased participation and investment. The British & Irish Lions, a touring team representing England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, has historically focused on men’s rugby, but the women’s initiative reflects broader efforts to expand the sport’s reach. A spokesperson for the Lions organization stated, “This tour is a significant milestone for women’s rugby, providing a platform to showcase talent and grow the game in one of its most passionate rugby nations.”

Details about the tour’s structure remain under discussion. Rugby World, a sports media outlet, reported that the series is likely to include three test matches against the New Zealand women’s team, with additional fixtures against regional sides. The exact dates and locations of these matches are pending confirmation from both the Lions and New Zealand Rugby. A 2026 report from the New Zealand Rugby Union indicated that the country’s rugby authorities are in early talks with the Lions to secure venues and logistical support for the tour.

The 2027 tour will also coincide with the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which is set to be hosted by England in 2025. While the Lions tour is not directly linked to the World Cup, its timing could provide a high-profile stage for players to gain international exposure. The first women’s Lions tour in 2027 will follow a similar format to the men’s tours, which typically span several weeks and involve travel across multiple cities. Past men’s tours have included matches in major rugby hubs such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, with the potential for similar venues to be used for the women’s series.

Historically, the British & Irish Lions have toured New Zealand five times, most recently in 2017. The men’s team has a 3-2 record in Test matches against New Zealand, with the 2005 tour being the only series won by the Lions. The women’s tour is expected to follow a similar competitive structure, though the outcome of the series remains uncertain. New Zealand’s women’s team, known as the Black Ferns, has dominated international rugby, winning the Rugby World Cup in 2017 and 2021. Their performance in the 2027 series could set a benchmark for the Lions’ preparation ahead of the next World Cup.

The selection process for the women’s Lions squad is also under consideration. Unlike the men’s tours, which have a long-standing tradition of selecting players from the four home nations, the women’s tour will require a new approach to team composition. A report from Rugby World noted that the Lions’ selectors may prioritize players from the English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh national teams, with potential invitations extended to players from other rugby nations if needed. The final squad is expected to be announced in 2026, with training camps and pre-tour fixtures planned for the following year.

The 2027 tour has already generated significant interest among rugby fans and players. Social media platforms have seen increased engagement with posts about the women’s Lions, with hashtags such as #Lions2027 and #WomenInRugby trending in New Zealand and the UK. Players from the British and Irish teams have expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to represent their nations on an international stage. “This is a chance to make history,” said a player from the Irish women’s team, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We’re ready to give our all and show what women’s rugby is capable of.”

Logistical challenges remain, including travel arrangements, stadium availability, and broadcast rights. New Zealand Rugby has indicated that it will work closely with the Lions to ensure the tour meets high standards for player welfare and fan engagement. The organization also emphasized the importance of promoting women’s rugby through the tour, with plans to include community outreach programs and youth development initiatives. A spokesperson for New Zealand Rugby stated, “This tour is not just about competition—it’s about inspiring the next generation of players and fans.”

As the 2027 tour approaches, updates on fixtures, squads, and venues will be released through official Lions and New Zealand Rugby channels. Fans are encouraged to follow these sources for the latest information. The tour’s success could pave the way for future women’s Lions tours, potentially expanding the program to other rugby nations in the coming decades.