B&I Lions look to create a women's team thanks to new partner

The British and Irish Lions are exploring whether it is feasible to create a a women's team, after announcing Royal London as an official partner on Monday.

In a statement released by the Lions on Monday, Royal London was announced as the official pensions, investment and life insurance partner of the Castle Lager Lions Series.

The new partnership announced that Royal London will now also be the 'principal partner' to the Women's Lions programme.

This means that the insurance company will fund a study set to determine whether or not a Lions women's team can and should be formed.

“We are very excited to have agreed a partnership with a brand of the calibre of Royal London,” said British & Irish Lions managing director Ben Calveley in the statement released on Monday.

“Like the Lions, Royal London is a purpose-driven organisation which aims to bring people together and build relationships.

"What’s more, we have joined forces with a company known for its innovative and engaging approach to sponsorship who I am sure will add enormous value to the Series.

“The feasibility study is an important first step in determining whether a women’s Lions could be established, and we are very grateful to have Royal London’s support and investment.”

Ireland players stand for the national anthems prior to the Women's Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Wales at Energia Park in Dublin. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Commenting on the partnership, Susie Logan, group chief marketing officer at Royal London, said: “Sport has been impacted by COVID-19 and it’s fantastic to be able to support the Lions in the commitment to deliver the Castle Lager Lions Series.

"The Lions is a unique sporting event that unites rugby fans across the UK and Ireland and inspires the next generation of sports people. That’s why, despite the uncertainty currently faced by the tour we believe it’s important to provide support.

“As a modern mutual, we believe in the power of acting in collective interests and that’s why it’s fantastic that we can use the combined power of the Lions and Royal London to explore whether a Lions women’s team could be established.

"Through our partnership, we aim to make a positive impact on the continued success of women’s rugby.”

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