The 2029 Lions tour could be heading stateside — with a groundbreaking fixture in the USA on the cards before their epic tour of New Zealand kicks off.
In a major move to help grow the game stateside ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup, the Lions are reportedly planning an exhibition clash in the U.S. — likely against the USA Eagles or an invitation XV in Las Vegas.
🏟️ TWICKENHAM GETS THE NOD
Before crossing the Atlantic, the tour will kick off with a home fixture — and all signs point to Twickenham.
Why? It’s only fair.
The last three Lions home games have been shared evenly around the Home Nations:
- 🏟️ Aviva Stadium, Dublin (2025)
- 🏟️ Murrayfield, Edinburgh (2021)
- 🏟️ Principality Stadium, Cardiff (2005)
That leaves the Home of Rugby next in line — with France, Argentina or Fiji tipped as likely opponents under the lights in London.
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🦁 THE ROAD TO NEW ZEALAND
Once the US match is done, the Lions will head down under for a brutal warm-up schedule, facing off against all five Super Rugby franchises:
- Blues
- Chiefs
- Crusaders
- Highlanders
- Hurricanes
They’ll also go toe-to-toe with the Māori All Blacks in one of the most passionate matchups of the tour.
Following the first Test against the All Blacks, a midweek clash with the New Zealand Barbarians is also on the cards — perfect for rotating the squad and keeping the intensity sky-high before the final two Tests.
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📅 LIKELY 2029 LIONS FIXTURES
han the understrength Wallabies outfit Farrell has dispatched this year. Whoever takes the reins as head coach will be under intense pressure to get selections right.
With that in mind, here’s our early prediction for the 2029 Lions Test XV.
15. Blair Kinghorn
Despite missing most of the 2025 tour through injury and Top 14 commitments, Kinghorn remains one of the most complete fullbacks available to the Lions. On form, he’s the best in the Home Nations, offering versatility and composure at the back.
At 28, he’ll be in excellent physical shape by 2029. Starting the final Test this weekend provides valuable experience. While Sale’s Joe Carpenter is a rising threat, Kinghorn’s proven Test-level pedigree keeps him ahead.
14. Tommy Freeman
Freeman was a nailed-on starter throughout the 2025 series — and for good reason. At 24, he’s still developing but already plays like a seasoned international. His size, power, and try-scoring instinct make him a nightmare for defenders.
By 2029, he’ll be at his peak and could be one of the standout figures in the Lions backline.
13. Ollie Lawrence
Lawrence missed the 2025 tour through injury but would have almost certainly travelled — and challenged for a starting spot. With Huw Jones likely past his best at 35 in 2029, Lawrence (who’ll be 29) has a golden opportunity to claim the 13 jersey.
If he regains his top form, he’ll be tough to leave out.
12. Sione Tuipulotu
Tuipulotu impressed during the 2025 season and was arguably unlucky to be benched in favour of Bundee Aki, despite being in better form. By 2029, he’ll be 32 and bring a wealth of experience.
His blend of physicality and skill, along with a calm head, will be vital against the All Blacks.
11. Mack Hansen
Injury kept Hansen out of the 2025 series, but if fit, he’ll be 31 in 2029 and still a major attacking threat. His flair, game intelligence, and unpredictability make him a fan favourite.
If Andy Farrell isn’t retained as coach, Hansen could be overlooked for a winger from another nation — but on ability alone, he’s hard to ignore.
10. Fin Smith
Smith is the standout young fly-half in English rugby and showed real quality during the 2025 series, even if opportunities were limited. His decision-making, game management and kicking are already top-tier.
By 2029, he could be the best No.10 available. Sam Prendergast might challenge him, but Smith currently looks the more complete package.
9. Alex Mitchell
Mitchell is in his prime at 28 and impressed during the 2025 tour. With few younger No.9s putting their hands up, he’s in a strong position to retain the jersey.
If his partnership with Fin Smith continues at Northampton Saints, that club connection could be a big plus for the Lions in 2029.
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