In a major coup for rugby union, the British and Irish Lions have confirmed a landmark partnership with sportswear titan Nike, which will see the brand produce the famous red jersey for the first time since 1993.
Historic Deal for Landmark Tours
The agreement, announced on Thursday 15 January 2026, names Nike as the official kit provider for the legendary touring side. The deal is particularly significant as it encompasses the kit for the inaugural British & Irish Lions Women’s Team tour to New Zealand in 2027. This historic women's series will be sponsored by insurance giant Howden, which also backed the victorious men's tour to Australia in 2025.
"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," stated British and Irish Lions chief executive Ben Calveley. "Anticipation is building for this historic Tour which is now just over 18 months away."
Nike Back in the Scrum After Three Decades
This move marks a return to the Lions fold for the American brand after a long hiatus. Nike last partnered with the Lions for the men’s tour to New Zealand in 1993, a series the hosts won 2-1. The new kit will feature Royal London as the front-of-shirt partner.
Fans can already get a taste of the collaboration, with Nike-branded Lions leisurewear on sale, including a hoodie priced at £70. However, the main event will be the reveal of the playing jerseys closer to the tour.
A New Chapter for Lions Rugby
The creation of the women's team jersey was described by Calveley as "a hugely significant moment in our history." He added, "The famous red jersey is embedded in our DNA, and working with Nike, one of the world’s leading sports brands, to develop the jersey and kit that will be worn in New Zealand will be incredibly special."
The establishment of the Lions Women’s Team, which will tour every four years to mirror the men's schedule, was so pivotal that it influenced player movements. Those who chose to join a rebel league were informed they would be ineligible for selection for the 2027 tour.
Looking beyond New Zealand, the future schedule for the women's side remains open, with potential tours against women's rugby powerhouses like France and Canada now a possibility, further expanding the Lions' global footprint.
