Breaking
The British and Irish Lions Women's team will play their first ever match against France on August 27 in 2027; The match will take place at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff before they head on their first ever Tour to New Zealand
Wednesday 14 October 2026 10:00, UK
The British and Irish Lions Women's team will face France at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Friday August 27, marking the first-ever match played by a Lions Women's team.
The Howden Lions Women's Cup will provide supporters with their first opportunity to see Jo Yapp's side in action on home soil ahead of the inaugural Tour to New Zealand in 2027.
The Tour begins Saturday September 4 when the Lions Women face a Black Ferns XV at Semenoff Stadium in Whangārei, before the historic first Test against the Black Ferns at Go Media Stadium in Auckland on Saturday September 11.
- Could Willis switch allegiance from England to Ireland?
- Former Wallaby hooker Charles confirms MND diagnosis
- Not got Sky? Get Sky Sports or stream with no contract
The Lions will then take on an Invitational XV at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on Tuesday September 14, with the second Test in Wellington on Saturday September 18. The Series concludes with the third and final Test at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday September 25.
British and Irish Lions Women's Head Coach, Jo Yapp, said: "There are moments in sport that only come around once - and this is one of them.
"For our British and Irish Lions Women's team to step onto the field for the first time, on home soil and in front of our fans, is going to be incredibly special.
"France are the ideal team for an occasion like this. They bring a relentless defence and a real edge in attack. That's exactly the challenge that we need before heading to New Zealand.
"I'd love to see everyone get behind the squad and share this milestone with us. It will be a moment in history."
Ben Calveley, CEO of The British and Irish Lions, added: "We're immensely proud to announce our first-ever British & Irish Lions Women's fixture, in what is a monumental moment in Lions history.
"The Principality Stadium is a special venue with a rich rugby heritage, and it provides a fitting stage for such an occasion.
"With regards to our opposition, France are an outstanding side with a wealth of talent and experience, and they will present a huge test for Jo and her squad.
"We want to put on a show and create a spectacle of the highest level, both on and off the pitch. Our ambition is to provide an opportunity for the fans to be part of a truly special day."