Lions Women to face France in Cardiff in first-ever match

The British & Irish Lions Women will play their first-ever match against France at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Friday 27 August 2027.

The fixture will kick off at 7.30pm UK time and give Jo Yapp’s side a home send-off before their inaugural tour of New Zealand.

Known as the Howden Lions Women’s Cup, the match brings together the newly formed touring side and France ahead of a three-Test series against the Black Ferns.

When do Lions Women vs France tickets go on sale?

Tickets go on sale at 5pm UK time on Wednesday 14 October, starting at £20 for adults and £10 for children.

The official Lions announcement also confirms a group offer for purchases of ten or more adult tickets.

“France are the ideal team for an occasion like this,” head coach Yapp said, highlighting their defensive strength and attacking threat as preparation for New Zealand.

What follows for the Lions Women in New Zealand?

The confirmed tour schedule begins against a Black Ferns XV in Whangārei on 4 September.

The opening Test follows in Auckland on 11 September, before an Invitational XV fixture in Hamilton three days later.

Wellington hosts the second Test on 18 September, with the series concluding in Christchurch on 25 September. The five-match itinerary gives the Lions two games outside the Test series as they travel through both islands.

Follow Dave’s international rugby coverage and latest rugby news for more squad announcements, fixtures and analysis.