The British and Irish Lions women’s team will face France at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on August 27 next year, marking the first ever match played by a Lions women’s team.
The match takes place ahead of the inaugural women’s Lions tour to New Zealand the following month and The Howden Lions Women’s Cup clash with world number four side France will provide supporters with their first opportunity to see the select side in action on home soil.
The occasion will also give the team a memorable send-off before they head to New Zealand for the inaugural Howden British and Irish Lions Women’s Series.
The Tour begins on September 4 when the Lions 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 September 11.
The Lions will then take on an Invitational XV at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on September 14 before the second Test in Wellington on September 18.
The series concludes with the third and final Test at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch on September 25.
“There are moments in sport that only come around once – and this is one of them,” Jo Yapp, the British and Irish Lions women’s head coach, said after the Cardiff send off fixture was announced.
“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 as they bring a relentless defence and a real edge in attack. That’s exactly the challenge that we need before heading to New Zealand and 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 and 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.”
Tickets for the Cardiff fixture are available here.
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