Lions weigh up rolling dice on Las Vegas fixture for 2029 New Zealand tour

  • All Blacks have a growing status in the US
  • Match in Los Angeles or Japan also being considered

The British & Irish Lions are exploring the possibility of playing a money-spinning fixture in Las Vegas as part of their 2029 tour of New Zealand. ­Matches in Los Angeles or Japan are also among the options but rolling the dice and taking the Lions to Vegas is the most eye-catching proposal up for discussion.

In 2018 the Guardian reported that the Lions were keen on a ­fixture across the Atlantic and with the US awarded the 2031 World Cup, momentum is building to make it happen. The All Blacks have a growing profile in the US and want to continue developing commercial opportunities there. It is understood preliminary discussions between the Lions and the New Zealand union have taken place.

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Brendan Rodgers warns Celtic fans not to use fireworks during RB Leipzig’s visit

  • Uefa ban looming if fans repeat Dortmund incident
  • ‘There’s a sanction hanging over the club,’ says Rodgers

Celtic’s manager, Brendan Rodgers, has reiterated his call for the club’s supporters to stop using pyrotechnics, with the Bonfire Night Champions League visit of RB Leipzig raising fears of a Uefa ban.

Supporters’ use of fireworks during last month’s 7-1 defeat by Borussia Dortmund led to Celtic being fined by Uefa and told their fans will be banned from attending an away fixture if there is another such incident within two years. The warning was heeded when Celtic drew away to Atalanta two weeks ago, but kick-off was delayed at Saturday’s Scottish League Cup semi-final against Aberdeen after yet another Celtic pyro display. Uefa is keeping a close eye on the matter.

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