With only five weeks to the British and Irish playing in Dublin ahead of their tour to Australia, the team has announced two major performance-focused partnerships.

Health technology leader Resmed has been named the Official Sleep Partner, while performance nutrition brand Science in Sport (SiS) has joined as the Official Nutrition Partner.

The partnerships are aimed at optimising the Lions’ training, performance, and recovery during the high-intensity six-week tour, which features ten matches—including three Test games against the Wallabies in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Science in Sport will provide a full range of scientifically-formulated performance nutrition products tailored to the demands of elite rugby, including energy gels, protein powders, and supplements.

Working closely with Head Coach Andy Farrell’s staff, SiS will support players with customised fuelling strategies designed to meet their individual needs throughout the tour.

“This is one of the most iconic events in global sport,” said Dan Lampard, Chief Operating Officer of Science in Sport.

“As the team’s Official Nutrition Partner, Science in Sport will play a key role in ensuring the players are correctly fuelled and in optimum condition.”

The partnership will also drive scientific collaboration, helping SiS further research the nutritional requirements of elite athletes under the intense physical and travel demands of a Lions Tour. The Lions join a roster of elite affiliations including Saracens Rugby, Tottenham Hotspur, and governing bodies such as British Cycling and Aquatics GB.

Meanwhile, Resmed’s partnership focuses on the third pillar of health, sleep. Through a campaign titled “Tackle Your Sleep”, Resmed will promote the critical role of sleep in physical performance, mental health, and injury prevention.

The campaign features legendary rugby players offering sleep advice in a light-hearted but informative way. It aims to educate fans and athletes in the UK, Ireland, and Australia about how quality sleep can impact every aspect of life and sport.

“Poor sleep affects every aspect of our lives,” said Katrin Pucknat, Resmed’s Chief Marketing Officer. “As the Official Sleep Partner of the tour, we’re excited to raise awareness about the powerful connection between sleep and athletic performance.”

Research cited by Resmed reveals that one in four people globally live with poor sleep, and a study of 175 elite rugby and cricket players found that half were classified as poor sleepers, many experiencing daytime fatigue.

Ben Calveley, CEO of The British & Irish Lions, welcomed both partnerships: “These collaborations add important layers to our preparation and recovery strategies. With Resmed and Science in Sport on board, the Lions squad will benefit from world-class support on and off the field.”

Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh added: “These partnerships reflect the professional standards required at the top level of our game. We’re excited to see how they enhance the experience for players and fans alike across Australia.”

Qatar Airways, Howden and Canterbury are the principal commercial partners of the Lions Tour.

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Further Reading for Sport for Business members:

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SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

The science of performance is better understood now than at any time in history and it is notable that what once were expertise bought in, it is now in the form of a partnership so that the companies behind the ideas can promote to a wider general public.

WHAT’S UP NEXT?

The Lions play Argentina at the Aviva Stadium on June 20th.

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