Tickets are now available for the historic match between the British & Irish Lions and an invitational side at Adelaide Oval, set for 12 July 2025.
This marks a momentous occasion as the Lions return to South Australia for the first time since 1888, promising a major influx of visitors to the state.
The British & Irish Lions, a team combining the finest players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, have a rich history of touring every four years, alternating among Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Their upcoming visit to Adelaide is particularly significant as it represents the first appearance in the region in 137 years. The anticipation for this event is high, with a substantial number of rugby enthusiasts from South Australia, other Australian states, and overseas expected to compete for tickets.
The Lions will face an invitational team composed of players from Australia and New Zealand. This match, unique since 1989, is crucial as it occurs just a week before the first Test, drawing particular attention from fans across the globe. With the Lions’ last tour in Australia in 2013 attracting between 30-40,000 British and Irish supporters and generating an estimated $150 million for the Australian economy, the upcoming game is anticipated to draw a capacity crowd of 54,000 spectators to Adelaide Oval. The historic significance of the match, coupled with the Lions’ dedicated fanbase and the combined allure of the Australian-New Zealand team, is expected to bring a significant economic boost to South Australia.
Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison highlighted the importance of this event, stating, “Another world-class sporting event at Adelaide Oval and today is the chance for the public to get their tickets. This is the most prestigious Rugby Tour in the world, and it is expected to draw a capacity crowd, boosting visitors to our state and providing a significant economic boost. We look forward to welcoming the Lions and the thousands of fans who will travel here from the northern hemisphere and from interstate. They’ll be able to enjoy an historic sporting spectacle and enjoy all that South Australia has to offer.”
Leon Bignell, Chair of the SA Major Events Attraction Committee, expressed his excitement about hosting the Lions, saying “The British and Irish Lions are a phenomenon in the UK and are very much loved by their supporters. Tens of thousands of fans join them when they tour every four years and they’re mostly high net worth professionals who like to stay in great accommodation and drink the best wines and whiskeys and eat premium food.”
Phil Waugh, CEO of Rugby Australia, also shared his enthusiasm for the event, urging rugby fans and event-goers to secure their tickets promptly given the high demand observed during the pre-sale phases. He said “We’ve seen huge demand across the pre-sale windows for Wallabies First and Super Rugby club members and I’m sure this first allocation for the General Public will be no different – I would urge all Rugby fans, and major event-goers to get in quick to make sure they don’t miss out.”
As Adelaide prepares to host this historic match, the city and state anticipate not only a thrilling sports event but also a significant opportunity to showcase South Australia’s hospitality, culture, and attractions to a global audience.
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