British & Irish Lions Info & FAQs
Do you consider yourself a Lions superfan? Or do you want to improve your knowledge? Either way, you’ll love this British and Irish Lions FAQ page. From the inaugural tour to the recent series, our rugby gurus have been hard at work, collecting all of your most-asked questions to provide you with a wealth of Lions information.
In this British and Irish Lions FAQ page, you’ll find all the answers you need to elevate your expertise and impress your friends. Whether you’re eager to find out more about the history of the Lions, learn about their winning record or read about one-off matches, we’ve gone right back to the inaugural tour to uncover all of the facts.
So, are you ready to become an authority on the British and Irish Lions? Scroll below to discover some of the most popular questions about the Lions and uncover insights about their southern hemisphere tours.
Who are the British and Irish Lions? 
The British and Irish Lions is a rugby union test side that contains players from four national teams: England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The majority of players selected to represent the Lions have already played international rugby.
The Lions play a test series away from home against Australia, New Zealand or South Africa every four years. While they tour the country, the Lions also play a number of other matches against regional and representative sides.
When did the British and Irish Lions play their first game?
The British and Irish Lions played their first game on 28 April 1888. Known then as the Shaw & Shrewsbury Team, the British side travelled to New Zealand for an unofficial tour. Their first match was against Otago RU in Dunedin and the Lions won 8-3.
How often do the British and Irish Lions play?
The British and Irish Lions play every four years. Their quadrennial tour alternates between three southern hemisphere countries: Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The Lions first faced Australia and New Zealand in 1888, followed by South Africa in 1891.
Which teams do the British and Irish Lions play against?
The British and Irish Lions currently play against Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The side’s most recent tour took them to South Africa in 2021. Their next tours will take place in Australia (2025) and New Zealand (2029).
Which other teams have the British and Irish Lions played against in the past?
The British and Irish Lions have also played against seven other national teams in the past. These are Argentina, Canada, Ceylon, East Africa, Fiji, France and Japan. The Lions completed three tours in Argentina while their other international matches were played as one-off tests.
Which teams do the British and Irish Lions hold a winning record over?
The British and Irish Lions hold a winning record over Argentina, Australia, Canada, Ceylon, East Africa, France and Japan. The Lions hold a 100% test series record against Argentina and a 78% record against Australia. Additionally, the team has won 100% of their international tests against Canada, Ceylon, East Africa, France and Japan.
Which teams hold a winning record over the British and Irish Lions?
New Zealand, South Africa and Fiji hold a winning record over the British and Irish Lions. New Zealand hold a 92% test series record against the Lions, while South Africa have a 72% record. Also, Fiji won their only game against the Lions, giving them a 100% test match record.