Jo Yapp to Lead Historic British & Irish Lions Women's Tour

Jo Yapp is set to make history as the first to lead the British & Irish Lions women's team. Announced for the 2027 tour to New Zealand, she will step down temporarily from her England Rugby role to assume the position. Yapp brings ample experience to this prestigious role.

Jo Yapp is poised to make rugby history in 2027, when she becomes the inaugural coach of the British & Irish Lions women's team for their New Zealand tour, the Lions announced this Wednesday.

The 70-cap England international will confront the Black Ferns in a three-test series plus pre-tour games. Yapp will temporarily leave her position as the Head of Women's Pathway at England Rugby.

Yapp expressed pride and excitement at leading the team in a statement, while Lions CEO Ben Calveley praised her impressive coaching credentials and vision.