British & Irish Lions to play France in first match of its kind
02/18/2025 12:54 PM
In a groundbreaking move, the French Rugby Federation has reportedly reached out to the Home Unions to propose a monumental clash: the British & Irish Lions facing off against France’s national team at Paris’s iconic Stade de France, potentially slated for 2027.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
This initiative aims to bring together the best of Northern Hemisphere rugby in a showcase event, highlighting the sport’s growing global appeal.
Before this potential 2027 spectacle, rugby fans have the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia to look forward to.
The tour kicks off with a historic pre-tour match against Argentina on June 20, 2025, at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium—the first time the Lions will play on Irish soil.
The Australian tour itinerary includes:
- June 28: Western Force vs. Lions in Perth
- July 2: Queensland Reds vs. Lions in Brisbane
- July 5: NSW Waratahs vs. Lions in Sydney
- July 9: ACT Brumbies vs. Lions in Canberra
- July 12: Invitational Australia & New Zealand XV vs. Lions in Adelaide
- July 19: First Test vs. Wallabies in Brisbane
- July 22: Opponent TBC vs. Lions in Melbourne
- July 26: Second Test vs. Wallabies in Melbourne
- August 2: Third Test vs. Wallabies in Sydney
This tour promises intense matchups across Australia’s premier venues, culminating in a thrilling three-Test series against the Wallabies.
As anticipation builds for both the 2025 tour and the proposed 2027 Paris showdown, rugby enthusiasts worldwide are set for an exciting few years ahead.
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WARREN GATLAND’S ALL-TIME LIONS XV
15. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
A stalwart of Welsh rugby, Halfpenny’s precision on the field was matched only by his reliability under the high ball. His defensive prowess and lethal boot made him a formidable opponent, earning him accolades as one of the finest full-backs in the world.
14. Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
Bowe’s lightning pace and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for opposition defenses. Renowned for his work ethic and versatility, he brought a blend of skill and determination to every game, leaving an indelible mark on Irish rugby history.
13. Jonathan Davies (Wales)
Davies’ midfield mastery and astute game reading elevated him to the pinnacle of Welsh rugby. A linchpin in both attack and defence, his ability to break lines and create opportunities made him a vital asset in any team’s arsenal.
Gatland wrote: “This was the most difficult selection for many obvious reasons. I know a lot of people will ask why I did not select Brian O'Driscoll here. If you were to pick a Lions team that included the tours when he was at his best, 2001 and 2005, then he would come into that calculation because he was an unbelievable player.
“But when I was head coach in 2013, his best days were behind him whereas Jonathan Davies was in his prime. He played in the series-winning Test in 2013 and went on to become player of the series on the 2017 tour against the world champions New Zealand.”
12. Jamie Roberts (Wales)
Roberts’ brute force and tactical acumen made him a force to be reckoned with in midfield. Combining power with finesse, he consistently punched holes in opposition defences, earning accolades as one of Wales’ most formidable centres
11. George North (Wales)
North’s sheer athleticism and devastating speed made him a game-changer on the wing. Blessed with remarkable footwork and raw power, he left defenders grasping at thin air as he tore through opposition lines, cementing his status as a Welsh rugby icon.
Gatland wrote: “Wales were blessed with some fantastic athletes in the backline during my time and George was another one with explosive power and brilliant footwork which made him difficult to deal with, particularly at his best between 2011 to 2013. His physicality was important in negating the power of Israel Folau against Australia in 2013.”
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