British and Irish Lions Tour:
Everything You Need to Know

The British and Irish Lions are a rugby union team composed of players from four countries: England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Unlike traditional international rugby teams, the Lions are a combined squad made up of the best players from these nations, who only unite for tours. These tours, which happen once every four years, pit the Lions against some of the top rugby teams in the world.

The Lions Tour is an event where the British and Irish Lions come together to compete against the national teams of one of the Southern Hemisphere’s major rugby nations. The tour usually lasts for several weeks, during which the Lions play a series of warm-up matches and international test matches against the host country.

The Lions’ matches are a spectacle that brings together passionate fans from across the UK, Ireland, and the host nation. These tours are not only a test of skill and determination but also an opportunity to showcase the unique camaraderie and rugby spirit that the Lions embody

The British and Irish Lions, often referred to simply as “The Lions,” have a long and storied history that dates back to 1888. The first tour, which was to New Zealand and Australia, was a success and helped establish the Lions as a force in the world of rugby. Over the years, the Lions have toured several countries, including South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia, creating a legacy that has seen them become a unique and revered entity in rugby union.

The Lions’ tours have seen some truly historic moments, with their victories and performances often remembered as defining chapters in the sport. Their tours to the Southern Hemisphere, particularly to New Zealand and South Africa, have sparked some of the most intense rivalries in rugby history.

Selecting the Lions team is a complex process. It involves a selection panel made up of coaches, selectors, and former players from the four home nations. The selectors look for players who have consistently performed at the highest level in their domestic leagues and international competitions.

The selection is based on form, fitness, and potential synergy between players from different nations. Given that the Lions only come together for tours, it’s vital that the team can quickly gel and work as a unit.

Over the years, British and Irish Lions matches have produced some legendary players. Some of the most memorable names include:

Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland): One of the greatest centres to ever play the game, O’Driscoll was a key figure for the Lions on multiple tours.

Martin Johnson (England): Known for his leadership and formidable presence, Johnson was a rock in the Lions’ forward pack.

Sam Warburton (Wales): As a two-time Lions Tour captain, Warburton’s leadership and on-field tactics are legendary.

Scott Hastings (Scotland): A two-time Lions Tour veteran, Scott was one of Scotland’s finest ever centres, a former record caps holder and a great character!

JPR Williams (Wales): A star of the Lions’ 1971 series in New Zealand, Williams is regarded as one of the best fullbacks in history.

David Campese (Australia): Though not a Lion, David Campese was the face of the Australian team when the Lions last visited Australia and remains one of the most memorable opponents.

A Lions Tour is much more than just the rugby. It’s a celebration of the sport, with fans and players alike immersed in the cultural experience of the host nation. For fans, it’s a chance to travel, attend multiple matches, and participate in events and activities designed to bring rugby lovers together.

The team itself undergoes intense training and preparation in the lead-up to the tour, ensuring they are ready for the challenges ahead. Players spend weeks on the road, playing in multiple cities and taking part in promotional and fan-engagement activities.

The British and Irish Lions’ main rivals are the top rugby nations in the Southern Hemisphere: New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia. These countries have an incredible rugby pedigree, and matches between the Lions and any of these teams are always eagerly anticipated.

New Zealand: Perhaps the most iconic rugby team in the world, the All Blacks are known for their intensity and skill. The Lions’ tours to New Zealand have historically been some of the most competitive and memorable.

South Africa: The rivalry between the Lions and the Springboks is steeped in history, with both teams enjoying incredible success on the world stage.

Australia: The Wallabies are always a formidable opponent, and their matches against the Lions are known for their fierce competition and passionate support.

During the 2025 tour, there will be a number of high-profile games, but some of the key matchups include:

Lions vs. Argentina (First match of 2025): The British and Irish Lions will make history when they take on Rugby World Cup semi-finalists Argentina at the Aviva Stadium in June, marking the first time in their history they have played a fixture in Ireland. Expect an incredible atmosphere for this one as Lions fans get a unique opportunity to be part of the famous ‘Sea of Red’ on home soil.

Lions vs. Australian Super Rugby Teams (Warm-ups): These matches will provide the Lions with the opportunity to test their strategies before taking on the Wallabies in the test series.

Lions vs. Australia (Test Series): The three-test series will be the highlight of the tour, and with both teams eager to claim victory, the matches are sure to be thrilling.

Expect these encounters to be filled with intense competition, fierce rivalries, and plenty of drama

The British and Irish Lions Tour is more than just a rugby competition; it’s an opportunity for players and fans to create lasting memories and for the sport of rugby to showcase its values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and international camaraderie. These tours are a unique celebration of rugby and serve as a platform for the best players from the UK and Ireland to challenge themselves against the top teams in the world.

The Lions’ tours are also a way to forge connections between the four nations and create a sense of pride and unity as players from rival countries come together for a common cause.

The British and Irish Lions Tour is a must-see event for any rugby fan, offering unparalleled excitement and passion. As the 2025 Lions Tour to Australia approaches, the anticipation continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to see their heroes in action.

For those looking to experience the thrill of the Lions Tour firsthand, be sure to check out our British & Irish Lions Tour Preview Lunch for an unforgettable experience in the build up to the main event.

The Lions Tour is more than just a rugby match – it’s a celebration of sport, culture, and the shared love of the game!