Everything You Need to Know About Rugby This Summer
Rugby fans are spoilt for choice this summer, with major tournaments across men’s, women’s, youth, and sevens formats. From the British & Irish Lions tour to the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the global calendar has something for every fan. Here’s what to watch out for:
British & Irish Lions Return to Australia
The British & Irish Lions are back on tour for the first time since 2021, and this time they’re heading to Australia. The tour begins with a historic first-ever match in Ireland – a warm-up against Argentina at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on 20 June.
The squad will then fly out to face several Super Rugby sides and a combined Australia & New Zealand XV before taking on the Wallabies in a three-Test series:
- 1st Test: 19 July, Brisbane
- 2nd Test: 26 July, Melbourne
- 3rd Test: 2 August, Sydney
With the constant injury updates in rugby today, fans are keeping a keen eye on Andy Farrell’s selection pool ahead of the squad announcement on the 8th of May.
Women’s Rugby World Cup Comes to England
England will host the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, which runs from 22 August to 27 September. It’s the first edition to feature 16 teams and will take place across eight cities, with the final to be held at Twickenham.
England open the tournament against the USA in Sunderland, while defending champions New Zealand face Spain in York. It promises to be a landmark event in the continued growth of women’s rugby.
U20 Championship Showcases Future Talent
Italy will stage the World Rugby U20 Championship from 29 June to 19 July. The tournament will be played across venues in Lombardia and Veneto, bringing together the best under-20 players in the world. Traditionally a launching pad for future stars, this year’s competition will be watched closely by club scouts and national team selectors alike.
Fast-Paced Action in Rugby Sevens
The summer also includes key legs of the HSBC SVNS Sevens Series, with the Los Angeles round taking place on 3–4 May. Meanwhile, the Challenger Series – a second-tier tournament offering promotion to the main circuit – has already hosted events in Cape Town and Krakow, with final qualification matches also scheduled in LA.
Looking Ahead
With elite-level action across all formats and age groups, rugby fans have a packed summer ahead. Whether you’re tuning in for the Lions, following the women’s game, or spotting tomorrow’s stars in the U20s, 2025 promises a summer to remember.
