The British and Irish Lions rugby union tour to South Africa is due to go ahead as scheduled this summer.
Contingency plans – including moving it to the UK – had been considered due to concerns over coronavirus in the country.
Talks about how the event in July and August can be made covid-safe are ongoing.
It’s still to be confirmed if fans can attend.
The Lions Board confirmed its preference to SA Rugby on Monday evening, prior to follow-up meetings earlier today (Tuesday).
“After reviewing information relating to the various contingency scenarios being considered, I can confirm that the Board’s intended position is for the Tour to go ahead as scheduled in South Africa in 2021,” said Jason Leonard, chairman of The British & Irish Lions.
“We acknowledge that there is a significant amount of work still to be undertaken to deliver a robust COVID-19 countermeasure plan to ensure a successful, safe and uninterrupted Tour. SA Rugby will have our full support to help implement this plan.”
Mark Alexander, president of the SA Rugby, said he would inform the Executive Council of the South African Rugby Union of the alignment.
“We appreciate the Lions’ faith and share their desire to see a safe and successful tour,” said Alexander.
“We have been in regular contact with our government to make that a reality against the backdrop of the pandemic and its predicted progression over the coming months.
“There are serious financial implications for SA Rugby, should the event take place without any supporters in attendance, and we cannot ignore that in our considerations. But we are determined that the eventual outcome will deliver the best occasion and experience for players, supporters, and our commercial partners.”
Alexander said the original tour schedule was subject to review because of those considerations. Should any changes be required they will be communicated as soon as possible.
Supporters
It is not yet known whether international or cross-border travel for supporters will be possible into the country in July.
At this time, it also remains unclear whether spectators will be permitted into stadia in July and August.
The British & Irish Lions have toured South Africa on 13 previous occasions, with the first Tour taking place in 1891. In that time, the Lions have won the four-Test series, lost eight with one drawn.
Their overall record against the Springboks is played 46, won 17, lost 23, and drawn six.
The British & Irish Lions have provided an update on the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series 🦁#LionsRugby #CastleLionsSeries
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) March 23, 2021
