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Trailblazer Yapp to Lead Historic Lions Women's Team in New Zealand in 2027
Yapp will begin part-time in July before taking over full-time, as the Lions prepare a six-match tour capped by three Tests against the Black Ferns.
- On Wednesday, the British and Irish Lions named Jo Yapp as head coach for the inaugural women's tour to New Zealand in 2027, making rugby history with the first-ever Lions women's squad.
- World Cup-winning coach John Mitchell was passed over despite indicating interest after guiding England to championship success in September; the Red Roses have since extended their dominance with a 38-Test winning streak.
- Yapp's coaching background spans England Under-20, Worcester Warriors Women, and the Barbarians; she led Australia to the 2025 Rugby World Cup quarter-finals. Lions CEO Ben Calveley called her "an outstanding candidate for this role."
- Yapp will begin part-time work with the Lions in July before stepping into the full-time role in January, overseeing a six-match tour culminating in three Tests against the Black Ferns in September 2027.
- Calveley emphasized the appointment serves the Lions' desire to "grow and support all aspects of the women's game including the promotion of female coaches." England's Grand Slam champions are expected to provide the bulk of the touring party alongside Ireland, Wales and Scotland.
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Leaning Left3Leaning Right1Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
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50% Center
L 38%
C 50%
12%
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