The British & Irish Lions and SA Rugby have announced British Airways as the Global Airline Partner of the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series.
As the Global Airline Partner, British Airways will fly the 37-man Lions squad to South Africa on Sunday 27 June to kick off the eagerly awaited Lions Tour.
The Lions arrival in Johannesburg sees the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales embarking on an eight-game Tour of South Africa, including three Tests against World Champions, the Springboks.
Following The Vodafone Lions 1888 Cup clash again Japan at BT Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday 26 June (kick off 3pm), the Lions will board a British Airways charter flight from Edinburgh landing in Johannesburg to begin preparations for the first game of the Tour which starts on Saturday 3 July.
“We are delighted to welcome British Airways onboard as the Official Airline Partner of the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series,” said Ben Calveley, Managing Director for The British & Irish Lions.
“We know the squad and management will receive a warm welcome from BA staff and enjoy a safe, comfortable journey to South Africa, landing in Johannesburg ready to take on the world champions.”
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said: “We are honoured to be flying The British & Irish Lions to South Africa ahead of their tour. After a difficult year, we look forward to uniting the nation through sport and cheering them on. From everyone at British Airways, we wish them the best of luck and hope to carry them home as champions.”
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 four Test series, lost eight with one drawn. Their overall record against the Springboks is played 46, won 17, lost 23 and drawn six.
