Record-Breaking Rugby Match Outshines Taylor Swift's Concerts in Sydney
Taylor Swift's Eras tour may be a massive draw worldwide, but in Sydney, rugby fans took center stage as the British and Irish Lions final Test against the Wallabies at Accor Stadium raked in over $20 million in ticket sales. This marked the biggest single-day gate in the stadium's history, surpassing Swift's ticket sales when she performed at the venue in February 2024. The Wallabies' victory over the Lions in Sydney also attracted the largest sports crowd of the year at the stadium with 80,313 spectators.
Swift's concerts in Sydney each brought in between $19 million and $20 million at the gate, according to sources familiar with the matter. The Lions Test match saw 40,000 overseas fans on travel packages, predominantly Lions supporters. In comparison, Swift drew 81,000 fans for each of her four concerts in Sydney. The Lions Test also set a record for beer sales at the venue, with $4 million spent on food and beverages during the event.
Ticket prices for the Lions tour were higher than Swift's concerts, with fans paying between $149-$649 to attend the final Test, while Swifties were charged $79-$379 to see the Eras Tour. The Lions Test's success in ticket sales and attendance numbers highlights the enduring popularity of rugby in Sydney and the strong support for international sporting events in the city.