The British & Irish Lions

The British & Irish Lions is a privately owned entity headquartered in Ireland. Founded in 1888, the team, supported by approximately 60 employees, focuses on sports tickets, merchandise, and sponsorship. The company operates as a rugby union team selected from players eligible for the national teams of England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The Lions function as a test side, primarily selecting players who have already played for their national team, though they can pick uncapped players eligible for any of the four unions. Since 1989, the team has toured every four years, with these tours rotating sequentially between Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.