Premiership Rugby Moves 2025 Final to Boost Lions' Tour Hopes

Landmark agreement ensures all England-based players are available for pre-tour preparations and marketing activities.

Premiership Rugby has agreed to bring its 2025 final forward to maximize the British & Irish Lions' chances of success on their tour to Australia.
All England-based players will now be available for all pre-tour preparations leading into the 2025 tour to Australia, which starts on June 28 against Western Force in Perth.
The agreement comes after years of mutual hostility and distrust between Premiership Rugby and the Lions, with the build-up to the 2021 tour to South Africa overshadowed by rows over player release.
The Lions will play three tests against Australia as well as taking on five Super Rugby franchises and an invitational team made up of players from Australia and New Zealand.
The partnership will also allow Lions players from the two leagues to be available for all marketing and promotional activities.