Rugby union mourns the loss of two titans, Fergus Slattery and Roger Spattery, embodying unquenchable warrior spirit, whose impact on and off the field will be deeply missed.
Jo Yapp, former England captain and current RFU women’s pathway head, appointed as the first head coach for the British & Irish Lions women’s tour to New Zealand in 2027, aiming to lead a combined team from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales against the Black Ferns in three Tests.
Former Scotland rugby union centre Scott Hastings has died at the age of 61. Hastings, who won 65 caps for Scotland and played in two British and Irish Lions tours, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, May 17, after undergoing cancer treatment.
George North, one of Wales' greatest try-scorers with 47 international touchdowns, has announced his retirement from all rugby at the end of this season. The 34-year-old, who earned 121 caps for Wales and featured in four World Cups, made his debut at 18 and became the youngest Welshman to score on Test debut. North famously starred for the British & Irish Lions in 2013 with iconic moments against Australia in Brisbane and Melbourne, including a memorable fireman's lift tackle on Israel Folau.
Rugby Australia announced a record operating surplus of A$70 million (US$50 million) driven by the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour, which drew huge crowds to nine matches including three Tests and brought tens of thousands of overseas fans. CEO Phil Waugh said the surplus would enable a sustainable future for the sport after years of losses, with a dedicated investment fund to manage the funds and an expected further A$70-A$100 million from hosting next year's Rugby World Cup.
Organisation goes from $37m deficit to $70m profit in 12 monthsRecord operating surplus largely thanks to successful Lions tour Supporters of the British and Irish Lions have given Rugby Australia a financial launchpad ahead of the men’s and women’s World Cups, driving a record $70.6m surplus in 2025.The result, helped by strong attendance at the three Lions matches and a full calendar of Tests, reverses the pain of the previous period, when RA recorded a $37m deficit. Continue reading...
