The British & Irish Lions’ 2025 Tour to Australia has captured imaginations across both hemispheres, and not just because of the action on the pitch. From packed stadiums to hometown supporters, the tour has been a celebration of rugby at every level.
Let’s start with the numbers:
- 10 matches played — and 8 victories for the Lions.
- 48 tries scored and over 1,512 tackles made.
- 260 kicks and 327 points in total.
- A roaring crowd of 90,000 filled the stands at the second Wallabies Test.
- The team travelled more than 9,500 miles to Australia, taking on club sides and the national team in a gruelling schedule.
But while The British & Irish Lions lit up stadiums Down Under, Howden was helping fans and communities back home feel part of something bigger. Our mission wasn’t just to support the tour – it was to honour where every British & Irish Lion begins: at grassroots level.
Bringing the rugby spirit home
At Howden, we believe rugby has the power to bring people together – and that begins in local clubs, muddy pitches and weekend training sessions. That’s why, as a Principal Partner of The British & Irish Lions, we focused our efforts on connecting the professional and grassroots games.
We’ve hosted:
- 93 Lions watch parties across 78 branches, with rugby hubs around the country for fans and families.
- 43 family fun days, bringing communities together to celebrate not just rugby, but what it stands for: fun, passion and team spirit.
- 34 networking events, giving local businesses and rugby communities the chance to connect, collaborate and grow.
- 20 prize giveaways on social media – including 30 team kits, 8 jerseys, 5 tote bags full of exclusive merch and 1 cuddly lion toy!
And if that wasn’t enough, we’ve also served up more bacon baps and pints than we can reasonably keep track of. After all, who’s counting?!
Origins clubs: where legends begin
The British & Irish Lions’ legacy isn’t just built on wins, it’s built on clubs. That’s why we helped launch the Origins Clubs initiative, celebrating the places where British & Irish Lions legends first laced up their boots.
So far, we’ve proudly presented 91 Origins plaques to clubs across the UK. Each plaque is more than a symbol – it’s a statement. It tells every player, coach and supporter: you are part of this story too. The road to the red jersey starts with dedication at home, and we want to celebrate the clubs nurturing future rugby stars of tomorrow.
Why it matters
For Howden, this partnership is personal. Many of our colleagues, clients and partners have strong ties to the game. Whether it’s playing on a Sunday morning, coaching minis, or sponsoring their local team. Rugby reflects the values we hold dear: integrity, teamwork, resilience.
That’s why we’ve invested not just in the tour, but in the legacy it leaves behind. From kids catching their first glimpse of British & Irish Lions action to lifelong fans reliving past glories, we’re proud to be part of their journey.
More than a tour
The British & Irish Lions Tour 2025 was always going to be about more than rugby. It’s a cultural moment. A reminder of what unites us across borders and communities. From Australia to Aberdeen, and from Wales to Wagga Wagga, this tour has shown us that rugby’s heartbeat is strongest when it beats from the ground up.
At Howden, that’s exactly where our focus will remain – championing the grassroots, the unsung heroes, and the next generation of British & Irish Lions. Find out more about your local Howden branch and what they’re doing to support your community here.
And if your rugby club wants to get involved, our local teams are raring to go! Contact your nearest Howden branch to get involved.
Source: Rugby Pass
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This is a marketing blog by Howden Insurance.