Historic Appointment: Jo Yapp Takes Helm as Head Coach for Women's Lions Tour
Jo Yapp has been appointed as the head coach for the inaugural women’s British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand in 2027. The former England captain, currently leading the women’s pathway at the Rugby Football Union, previously guided Australia to the quarter-finals of last year’s Rugby World Cup. In a surprising turn, Yapp was chosen over England head coach John Mitchell, who led England to World Cup victory in 2025 and expressed interest in the Lions role. Yapp expressed her excitement, stating, “To lead the first-ever British & Irish Lions women’s team is an incredible honour and something I’m immensely proud of. The Lions represents the very best of our sport and this tour to New Zealand is an opportunity to create something truly special and help shape the future of women’s rugby for years to come.” Starting in July, Yapp will work part-time with the Lions before transitioning to a full-time role next year. The complete coaching staff, drawn from the four home nations, is yet to be announced. The Lions' tour is scheduled for September, featuring three Tests against the Black Ferns, led by Whitney Hansen since December 2025. Carol Isherwood, chair of the Lions women’s committee, highlighted the significance of Yapp's appointment, emphasizing her extensive experience and leadership in women's rugby. Yapp's coaching journey includes leading England Under-20s, serving as skills coach at Worcester, and becoming the first woman to head coach the Wallaroos, leading them to the WXV2 trophy in 2024. As a player, she earned 70 caps for the Red Roses and competed in three World Cups, facing New Zealand in the finals of 2002 and 2006. Yapp acknowledged the challenges posed by the Black Ferns but is eager to unite the best talent from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales for the historic tour.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-05-27