Maro Itoje says there is room for the British & Irish Lions to play France in future as the team explores destinations beyond its long-standing rotation. Reports suggest the Lions could meet France for the first time in nearly 40 years as part of plans linked to the 2029 tour to New Zealand, with potential trips to France, the Americas and Japan under review in a ‘Beyond29′ project.
The Lions have traditionally alternated every four years between New Zealand, South Africa and Australia, a pattern in place since Australia became a standalone tour in 1989. Itoje, the Saracens forward who captained the Lions on the 2025 tour to Australia, welcomed the idea of widening where the Lions play. He said the Lions’ traditions are important but that there is scope to try new regions, whether that means a full tour of France or a one-off match before returning to the traditional three nations.
Itoje also reiterated his support for England head coach Steve Borthwick after a disappointing Six Nations campaign. England finished fifth, losing four consecutive matches and suffering a first-ever international defeat to Italy. RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney has indicated that Borthwick will be given the upcoming Nations Championship fixtures this summer as an opportunity to start a recovery.
If England produce a satisfactory return against South Africa, Fiji and Argentina in July, Borthwick could remain in post through the expiry of his contract after the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Itoje acknowledged that England underperformed but expressed confidence in the coaching group—Richard Wigglesworth, Kevin Sinfield, Joe Shaw and Lee Blackett—and in the players’ ability to regroup, learn lessons and move forward together.
England’s Nations Championship fixtures
– Round One: July 4 – South Africa vs England
– Round Two: July 11 – Fiji vs England
– Round Three: July 18 – Argentina vs England
– Round Four: November 8 – England vs Australia
– Round Five: November 14 – England vs Japan
– Round Six: November 21 – England vs New Zealand