History

For over a century, The British & Irish Lions have embodied the spirit of rugby, uniting the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales to take on the world's toughest opposition. With a legacy forged in passion, resilience, and unforgettable moments, the Lions’ tours have become one of the most prestigious traditions in the sport.

From their first tour in 1888 to modern-day triumphs, the Lions have faced formidable teams in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, thrilling fans with their skill, teamwork, and determination. Their history is a testament to the power of unity, where rivalries are set aside in pursuit of rugby excellence.

Explore the rich history of the Lions—the legends, the victories, the heart-stopping encounters, and the impact they’ve had on the global game.

Delve into the rich legacy of The British & Irish Lions with our detailed archive of historic match results. This comprehensive record of historic Lions results captures every Tour, Test match, and milestone, offering a window into the triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments that have defined one of rugby’s greatest traditions.

Some more recent highlights include:

• 1974: The Invincibles Tour - the Lions went unbeaten in 22 matches in South Africa, a Tour that became the gold standard for Lions rugby.

• 1997: Triumph in South Africa - against all odds, the Lions clinched a famous 2-1 series victory, inspiring a generation with their unity and grit.

• 2001: Thriller in Australia - a closely fought series remembered for electric backline play and fierce intensity, with the Wallabies edging it 2-1.

• 2013: Redemption in Australia - after 16 years without a series win, the Lions roared back with a dominant 41-16 win in the final Test to seal the series.

• 2017: Draw in New Zealand - a rare and hard-earned 1-1 draw against the All Blacks, one of the most competitive Lions series of the modern era.