Monday, March 18, 2024
In July next year, Melbourne is set to be a bustling hub as it welcomes an influx of domestic and international visitors for the highly anticipated match between the British & Irish Lions and the Wallabies at the MCG, an event supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Steve Dimopoulos, the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, made the announcement today at the MCG alongside representatives from Rugby Australia, as well as past players from both the Wallabies and the Lions, marking the occasion of ticket sales commencing.
This event, happening only once every 12 years when the British and Irish Lions tour Australia, stands as a highlight in the global rugby schedule, drawing in a significant number of enthusiasts. This influx is expected to significantly benefit local employment, enterprises, and the overall economy of Victoria.
Scheduled for Saturday, 26 July 2025, this tour features the second of three tests between the British & Irish Lions and the Australian national team at the MCG. The Lions, a team composed of the top players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, embark on tours to Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa every four years, continuing a tradition that began in 1888. Their last tour to Australia in 2013 ended in a 2-1 series victory over the Wallabies.
The anticipation for these matches is likely to surge Melbourne’s tourism, following the city’s record-breaking attendance at the 2024 Australian Open and the fully booked Matildas vs Uzbekistan Olympic qualifier at Marvel Stadium last month.
These rugby matches are the latest highlight in Victoria’s comprehensive schedule of major sporting events for 2025, adding to an already impressive lineup that includes the Formula 1 Grand Prix, MotoGP, the AFL Grand Final, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, the Rip Curl Pro, and the Boxing Day Test.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“Melbourne’s strong track record for hosting global sporting events makes our city the perfect location for a sporting contest of this magnitude.”
“We’re looking forward to welcoming the British & Irish Lions squad next year, alongside the tens of thousands of diehard fans from all over the world that join them in experiencing our world-class city.”
Quote attributable to Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh
“The Wallabies’ last win against the Lions was in Melbourme, and I am sure the city will get behind the occasion of the Lions coming to town for the first time in 12 years.”
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
