Joe Schmidt responds as Lions warn Australia on player release

Tensions are rising ahead of the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour as head coach Joe Schmidt responded to accusations that Australia may be breaching the tour agreement by not releasing its top players for all mid-week fixtures.

The Lions had earlier warned Rugby Australia of a potential contract violation if Wallabies stars were withheld from games against Super Rugby teams.

British & Irish Lions CEO Ben Calveley firmly reminded Rugby Australia that, "The agreement is very clear – it says that Test players have to be released to play in fixtures leading into that series."

This was in reference to pre-Test games scheduled against the Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, and ACT Brumbies.

Calveley emphasized that these fixtures are critical for team preparation, fan engagement, broadcaster expectations, and commercial value.

He argued that elite-level opposition is necessary for the Lions to properly build towards the Test series opener on July 19.

Joe Schmidt, however, pushed back against this interpretation, insisting that the agreement only refers to a "best intent" clause rather than mandating full availability of Test players.

"It’s not as specific as saying every Wallaby ... has to be available to play every game," Schmidt clarified, defending his decision to manage player workloads ahead of the intense Test series.

The Wallabies coach further stated that while players from the Western Force, such as Nic White and Darcy Swain, will participate in the opening match, stars from other Super Rugby clubs may be held back.

This includes scenarios where Australia plays Fiji a day after the Waratahs face the Lions, complicating logistics and raising player welfare concerns.

The dispute could potentially escalate into legal territory, with the Lions reportedly considering action if Rugby Australia doesn’t comply. Some legal experts believe the Lions may even seek a court injunction, though proving tangible financial damage could be a challenge.

Calveley confirmed discussions are ongoing with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh and reiterated that the Lions will continue to advocate for the full execution of the tour agreement, adding that the integrity of the mid-week games must be maintained.