Big names return, new faces debut, and rivalries ignite as top nations clash in the 2025 mid-year Test window.
The mid-year Test rugby campaign is set to be an exciting period for rugby fans around the world, featuring a series of international matches that showcase the best teams and players. These contests will include a mix of traditional rivalries and emerging nations that’ll reshape the landscape of international rugby.
Six headline series span the hemispheres, with heavyweights like the All Blacks and Springboks hosting blockbuster fixtures, while rising nations like Georgia and Portugal gain vital exposure.
The British & Irish Lions tour headlines the mid-year Test window, but every series holds its own intrigue – from France’s young guns visiting New Zealand to England’s historic first Test in the United States of America.
The looming July Tests promise drama, development, and historic milestones across the board. Here’s your guide to every series on the cards.
Australia vs British & Irish Lions
Australia (3.40) will host the British & Irish Lions (1.30) in a three-Test blockbuster on 19 July (Brisbane), 26 July (Melbourne), and 2 August (Sydney).
This is the Lions’ first tour of Australia since 2013, and anticipation is massive. The Lions will also face Australian Super Rugby teams and a composite First Nations & Pasifika XV in a unique schedule leading up to the Test fixtures.
But with Joe Schmidt now in charge of the Wallabies, this series offers a shot at redemption and new beginnings for the host nation. A one-off warm-up Test against Fiji, on 6 July in Newcastle, will give Australia vital prep time.
South Africa vs Italy & Georgia
The Springboks open their season with a rare clash against the Barbarians before hosting Italy on 5 and 12 July in Pretoria and Gqeberha, respectively. That’ll be followed by a game against Georgia in Nelspruit on 19 July.
With fresh faces in camp and returning World Cup winners, these matches offer Rassie Erasmus an ideal platform to test depth, integrate new talent, and build continuity.
Italy and Georgia both bring forward-heavy games, which will test South Africa’s physicality early in their campaign.
New Zealand vs France
France and New Zealand square off in a top-tier three-Test series set for 5 July (Dunedin), 12 July (Wellington), and 19 July (Hamilton).
Though it’s a marquee fixture, France will tour without many of its top stars due to club commitments, offering younger talent a trial by fire.
The All Blacks, looking to restore consistency under Scott Robertson, will use this series to blood new faces and refine their post-World Cup blueprint.
Argentina vs England
England’s July tour to Argentina marks their first visit since 2017 and is a key step under new management. The two-Test series takes place on 5 and 12 July in San Juan and Buenos Aires.
The English squad then crosses the Atlantic to face the USA Eagles on 19 July, playing in a venue yet to be finalised but expected to draw a large crowd.
This will be England’s first-ever full Test match on American soil, giving them global exposure and a chance to trial new combinations against an emerging nation.
Japan vs Wales
Wales head to Japan for two Tests on 5 July in Kitakyushu and 12 July in Kobe, reigniting a fixture that’s always full of running rugby.
For Wales, it’s a chance to strengthen their squad depth and expose new players to challenging away conditions. Japan, still working to rebuild post-2023, will see this series as a springboard toward future competitiveness.
But the Brave Blossoms often thrive at home, and Wales can expect a lively atmosphere and tactical unpredictability.
Ireland vs Georgia & Portugal
Ireland takes a progressive route this July with Tests against Georgia in Tbilisi on 5 July and Portugal in Lisbon on 12 July.
It’s the first time Ireland will face Portugal at senior level, and both matches represent a welcome embrace of rugby’s expanding competitive base.
So, expect squad rotation, debutants, and a focus on expanding Ireland’s strategic depth ahead of a tough end-of-year campaign in November.
Why These Test Series Matter
These fixtures deliver a rich blend of established rivalries, emerging challenges, and global expansion of rugby’s footprint.
Outside of the Rugby World Cup, the British & Irish Lions tour remains the sport’s pinnacle. And this time it’s all about challenging the Wallabies and showcasing cultural exchange through the mid-week fixtures.
England’s South American tour marks a rare foray into USA waters, expanding their global reach.
Wales and France will test their squad and expand their player pools with youngsters touring to face their non-European rivals.
Meanwhile, the Springboks and All Blacks will use these Tests to reset and prepare strategically for the upcoming Rugby Championship and the northern hemisphere tours.
