Nike has been confirmed as the Official Sports Apparel Partner of the British & Irish Lions, becoming the exclusive kit supplier to the first-ever Lions Women’s team and a Principal Partner of the Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series in 2027.
The landmark agreement will see Nike provide all match, training and leisurewear for the Lions Women’s squad and touring party during their historic 2027 tour to New Zealand. Supporters will also be able to purchase lifestyle and training ranges, which are set to go on sale later this year.
It marks Nike’s first partnership with the Lions since the men’s tour to New Zealand in 1993, and comes as preparations continue for the inaugural Women’s Lions Series, now just over 18 months away.
Nike and the Lions will work closely on the design of the women’s match kit, as well as training and leisurewear, with a focus on innovation and performance-led design. The famous red Lions jersey will be reimagined for the women’s team, with the first official match shirt due to be unveiled in 2027.
The inaugural women’s jersey will be worn for all tour fixtures and will feature Royal London as the front-of-shirt partner. Nike x Lions apparel will be available via the Lions Rugby store from January 2026, with additional ranges released throughout the year.
Beyond the elite game, Nike will also become a principal partner of the Lions Origins Clubs and Schools programme, alongside Howden. The initiative supports grassroots rugby across the UK and Ireland and aims to help develop future generations of Lions players.
Lions CEO Ben Calveley said the partnership represents a major moment in the organisation’s history.
“We are delighted to confirm this milestone partnership with Nike as we prepare for the inaugural Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series to New Zealand in 2027,” Calveley said.
“The creation of the first ever Lions Women’s jersey represents a hugely significant moment. The famous red jersey is embedded in our DNA, and working with one of the world’s leading sports brands to develop the kit that will be worn in New Zealand will be incredibly special.”
The partnership underlines Nike’s growing investment in women’s sport, with both organisations aiming to build momentum and visibility for the women’s game on a global stage.