Every four years, something magical happens in the rugby world. Fans from across England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales unite under a single banner: The British & Irish Lions. The 2025 tour this summer was no exception. It was more than just rugby, it was a celebration shared heritage, sporting excellence, and passionate support that stretched far beyond the stadiums.
Whether you were one of the lucky few who made the journey to Australia, or you cheered from home, Lions fever swept through communities, pubs, and living rooms alike.
The British & Irish Lions jersey
For many, the journey began with the jersey. Wearing the iconic red shirt is never just about showing support, it’s a tradition steeped in meaning. The four-quartered badge on the chest proudly displays the symbols of the four home unions, making it one of the most recognisable and unifying emblems in world sport.
The jersey for the Qatar Airways Lions Men’s Tour to Australia was revealed in November last year, with an updated design in a deeper shade of red and the classic jacquard pattern woven into the fabric, paying homage to the four unions that unite to form this iconic team. England’s rose, Scotland’s thistle, Ireland’s shamrock and Wales’ feathers come together to represent the strength and legacy of the team.
Throughout the tour, stadiums, pubs, and homes became a sea of red, as fans donned the same jersey worn by legends past and present. That visual spectacle set the tone for an unforgettable summer.
Squad selection
While the initial call-up was a proud moment for players and fans alike, the real drama unfolded in the lead-up to each match. Squad announcements became headline events – every Test week brought fresh anticipation, speculation, and spirited debate.
Fans from all four nations tuned in eagerly to see who made the starting XV and who was named on the bench. Social media lit up with predictions, reactions, and passionate arguments over selections. Every announcement sparked a wave of analysis from pundits and supporters alike.
Group chats buzzed, podcasts dissected the choices, and pubs filled with fans weighing in on tactics and form. These moments added an extra layer of excitement to the tour, turning every lineup reveal into a communal experience that united fans in anticipation. And, in the end, it all paid off – The British & Irish Lions secured Tour victory, with 8/10 matches won!
United in song
Music has always been a powerful bonding tool on tour. Over the decades, certain songs have become synonymous with The British & Irish Lions. In 1997, it was Oasis’ Wonderwall. In 2013, Little Lion Man by Mumford & Sons. Fans have followed suit, singing those same songs in fan zones and stadiums alike.
During the 2017 tour, players learned a song from each home nation—Jerusalem, Calon Lan, Fields of Athenry, and Highland Cathedral. That tradition continued, with fans joining in full voice. From God Save the King to chants of Seven Nation Army reworked for Captain Maro Itoje, the soundtrack of the tour echoed far and wide.
Stirring speeches
“Because there is no tomorrow…there is no tomorrow. We are taking them boys to the hurt arena this weekend.” – Andy Farrell
“Very few ever get a chance in rugby terms to get for the top of Everest. You have the chance today. Being picked is the easy bit. To win for the Lions in a Test match is the ultimate, but you’ll not do it unless you put your bodies on the line.” – Jim Telfer
No British & Irish Lions tour is complete without stirring words from coaches and captains. Jim Telfer’s iconic “Everest” speech in 1997 still gives fans goosebumps. Andy Farrell’s “Hurt Arena” team talk became part of Lions folklore – and in 2025, as Head Coach, he delivered speeches that ignited the squad and inspired fans across the globe.
Clips of these speeches went viral, shared widely on social media and replayed by fans to get hyped before big matches. They tapped into the raw emotion and history of the Lions legacy, making every supporter feel part of the journey.
The local touch
Whether you were singing in the stands, checking in at a fan zone, or watching from your sofa in your favourite jersey, every supporter played a part in the story. Back at home, British & Irish Lions fever was alive and well, especially at Howden. Our branches were buzzing with activity, hosting events and gatherings to mark the tour.
From watch parties and local rugby fundraisers to themed celebrations, we were proud to bring fans together. It was a fantastic way to share the experience and support grassroots rugby at the same time.
Although the 2025 tour has now come to a close, the memories live on. The camaraderie, the drama, the pride – it’s all part of the Lions legacy. And at Howden, we’re already counting down to the next chapter.
Sources: The British & Irish Lions, Ruck Magazine, TBR Rugby