British Irish Lions Begin 2025 Australia Tour Across Six Cities

The British & Irish Lions are touring Australia in 2025 with a schedule of nine matches, including three pivotal Test matches against the Wallabies, aiming to replicate their successful tours of 1989 and 2013. The tour features warm-up games against Australian Super Rugby teams such as the Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, and ACT Brumbies, plus invitational sides, with significant player releases negotiated despite initial management tensions. The Lions, led by coach Andy Farrell, face an Australian team under coach Joe Schmidt that is rebuilding after a decade of challenges, currently ranked eighth globally but showing signs of progress. The tour is expected to draw massive crowds, with the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground anticipated to attract over 100,000 fans, potentially setting attendance records. Fans can watch all matches live and on demand on Stan Sport in Australia and on Sky Sports and talkSPORT in the UK and Ireland, with local venues like Australian Venue Co. and the rebranded Lionpack Hotel enhancing the viewing experience through events and live streaming. Key players to watch include Nick Champion De Crespigny of the Western Force, who could make a significant impact against the Lions, highlighting the tour's role in showcasing emerging talent alongside seasoned stars.