France to play historic test against British & Irish Lions in June 2029

Monday, 12 January 2026 at 11:33

byRugby Rucker

Reports in France suggest that the country is set to host a historic Test against the British & Irish Lions in June 2029.

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According to Midi Olympique, the match has been agreed, although a venue has yet to be confirmed.

The Lions are also planning a first in 2029, with a potential stop in the United States as part of their tour to New Zealand.

As part of an effort to grow rugby ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup, the Lions are reportedly considering an exhibition match 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:

That leaves the Home of Rugby next in line — with Argentina or Fiji tipped as likely opponents under the lights in London.

? 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:

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.

PACKAGES TO AUSTRALIA 2025 HAVE NOW SOLD OUT. SIGN UP FOR NEW ZEALAND 2029.

? LIKELY 2029 LIONS FIXTURES

Date (TBC)	Fixture	Location
TBC	vs France	Twickenham, London
TBC	vs USA Eagles / Invitational XV	United States
TBC	vs Blues	New Zealand
TBC	vs Chiefs	New Zealand
TBC	vs Crusaders	New Zealand
TBC	vs Highlanders	New Zealand
TBC	vs Hurricanes	New Zealand
TBC	vs Māori All Blacks	New Zealand
TBC	1st Test vs New Zealand	New Zealand
TBC	vs New Zealand Barbarians	New Zealand
TBC	2nd Test vs New Zealand	New Zealand
TBC	3rd Test vs New Zealand	New Zealand

"Henry Pollock starts" - Our predicted Lions XV for the All Blacks tour in 2029

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.

1. Andrew Porter

Porter had a strong 2025 campaign and remains a key figure in the front row. A year younger than Ellis Genge, his improving scrummaging and discipline could give him the edge in selection.

He looks better with every season.

2. Dan Sheehan

Arguably the standout player of the 2025 tour, Sheehan is still only 26. His dynamism, lineout accuracy and class around the field make him one of the easiest selections.

Barring injury or a dramatic dip in form, expect him to be starting in 2029.

3. Asher Opoku-Fordjour

A breakout year for Sale Sharks has put Opoku-Fordjour on the map. At just 21, he’s already among the top tightheads in the Premiership.

Strong in the scrum and dangerous in open play, he could be one of rugby’s biggest names by 2029 if his rise continues.

4. Maro Itoje

Itoje captained the Lions in 2025 and remains a central figure. He’ll be 34 in 2029, but his leadership, physicality and tour experience should keep him firmly in the mix.

No one matches his influence in the big moments.

5. George Martin

Injuries limited Martin’s involvement in 2025, but his long-term partnership with Itoje for England makes him a natural successor. He’ll be 28 in 2029 and hitting peak form.

His physicality and work rate will make him hard to ignore.

6. Tom Curry

Few players are more committed than Curry. Despite a tough run of injuries, he remains a ferocious tackler and tireless presence.

At 31, he should still be near his best — and a guaranteed starter if fit.

7. Henry Pollock

Pollock was the wildcard pick everyone wanted in 2025 — and he delivered. His rise has been rapid, and he plays with confidence and flair.

If he stays on course, he could be a global star in 2029. A game-changer in every sense.

8. Caelan Doris

Doris was tipped to captain the 2025 side before injury struck. That dream might only be delayed. He’s widely regarded as the best No.8 in the Home Nations and, at 30, will still be at the top of his game in 2029.

While Jack Conan performed well this year, Doris offers more across the board. There may be back-row reshuffles involving Jac Morgan or Pollock, but Doris remains the gold standard.