The British and Irish Lions fell short of an historic series whitewash over Australia as they suffered a 22-12 defeat in the third and final Test on Saturday.

The Lions concluded their tour of Australia in a weather-affected encounter that was suspended minutes into the second half due to lightning strikes in Sydney. 

Andy Farrell's team fell short of becoming the first Lions team in over 50 years to go an entire tour unbeaten as they came unstuck in tricky conditions at Accor Stadium. 

Australia took an eighth-minute lead through a Dylan Peitsch try and the boot of Tom Lynagh, with the hosts taking a slender 8-0 lead heading into the break. 

The Lions' task of a second-half comeback was made even more difficult after losing captain Maro Itoje and Tommy Freeman due to head injuries. 

James Ryan then left the field after the interval, with Australia adding to their lead through Max Jorgensen after the lightning delay had forced both teams off the pitch.

Farrell's side had a glimpse of a comeback when Jac Morgan went over, but they were unable to complete a similar turnaround that clinched the series in Melbourne last week. 

Australia's Tate McDermott ended the Lions' hopes of a series whitewash, with replacement Will Stuart registering a consolation try a minute from the end. 

Beaten in Sydney

Congratulations, @wallabies #Lions2025 pic.twitter.com/vky4tdTdtT

— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) August 2, 2025

Data Debrief: A tour to be proud of for the Lions

While the Lions fell short of a historic series sweep in Sydney, which would have been their first unbeaten series since 1974 against South Africa, they can be proud of their efforts during their time in Australia after ending a 28-year wait for a series triumph. 

But Saturday belonged to Australia, who ended a disappointing series on a high. Their victory ensured they would not lose five consecutive Test matches against European opposition for the first time since an 11-game stretch from 1948-1961. 

They also picked up a rare win in Sydney. They had lost 10 of their 12 Tests coming into this game since the start of 2016. Now, all three of their victories in the city have come against European teams (25-16 v Wales, 40-29 v Georgia and 22-12 v the Lions).