The British and Irish Lions women’s team will make history when they play their inaugural match against France at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on 27 August 2027, ahead of their maiden tour of New Zealand.
Coached by Jo Yapp, the Lions will face the world’s fourth-ranked side in a landmark encounter intended to showcase women’s rugby and build momentum before their five-match New Zealand campaign. The tourists will meet a Black Ferns XV in Whangarei the following weekend before beginning a three-Test series against the Black Ferns in Auckland on 11 September, with further Tests scheduled for Wellington and Christchurch.
Lions officials hope the Cardiff fixture will attract a substantial crowd, inspire future generations of female players and establish a lasting foundation for women’s Lions rugby. The occasion marks a significant milestone for an institution whose men’s teams have toured internationally since 1888.
