British & Irish Lions Women to play historic first match against France

The British & Irish Lions Women will play their first-ever match against France at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Friday, 27 August 2027. The fixture, part of the Howden Lions Women’s Cup, serves as a precursor to the team’s inaugural tour of New Zealand.

Head coach Jo Yapp described the match as a “once-in-a-generation sporting moment,” noting that France provides a significant challenge due to their defensive intensity and attacking capabilities. The match is intended to introduce the squad to supporters across Ireland, Wales, England, and Scotland before they travel to New Zealand.

The subsequent New Zealand tour will include matches against the Black Ferns and an invitational XV, concluding at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch on 25 September 2027.