British and Irish Lions women's tour on track after a feasibility study

The chances of the British and Irish Lions women's tour has received a huge boost with a feasibility study delivering positive initial findings.

The feasibility study was funded by Royal London, the inaugural ‘Principal Partner’ of the Lions women’s programme and was undertaken by sports marketing agency Two Circles.

The study also explored the feasibility of the game in terms of branding, commercials, sponsorship, logistics, scheduling and other key factors.

It is extremely positive that a British & Irish Lions women’s tour is possible in the future,” said Ben Calveley, Chief Executive Officer of the British & Irish Lions.

“While there is much to be considered, we are committed to taking the findings of this feasibility study and working closely with our unions as well as other stakeholders in the coming months.”

“I would like to thank World Rugby, our four unions from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales for their ongoing support. There has been a strong level of collaboration since the beginning of this process, and we are all united behind exploring this project fully.”

Meanwhile, Ieuan Evans, British & Irish Lion, Chairman of the Lions Board, member of the WRU Board and Chair of the Lions Women’s Steering Group said the feasibility study has led to a positive outcome.

“We are really encouraged by the initial findings of this feasibility study. We know there is significant support for the concept of creating a Lions women’s team and this is an important step along the way to exploring how that can be made a reality – great progress has been made to this point and a lot of work remains to be done.”