Despite being the most expensive tour of all time, with the cost expected to exceed £6.5million, Lions chief executive John Feehan insists there is no threat to the future viability of Lions tours, according to the UK’s Guardian newspaper.
"It'll be a modest profit but there will be a profit despite the fact our costs have doubled," said Feehan.
It is believed that the 51 players selected for the trip are costing the Lions in the region of £40,000 apiece in wages, compensation and insurance costs.
The balance sheet was significantly boosted by the Lions' pre-tour international against Argentina in Cardiff and several lucrative sponsorship deals.
The tour has attracted an estimated 20,000 visitors from the UK and Ireland and, including broadcasting revenue, the New Zealand Rugby Union is expected to make some £20million.
