Six Nations Confirms Scheduled Games To Go Ahead

The Guinness Six Nations has confirmed that its fourth round of matches will go ahead, with the exception of the already-postponed game between Ireland and Italy in Dublin, which has been called off due to coronavirus fears.

Officials met in Paris to discuss the impact that coronavirus might have on the rest of the tournament. Organisers have said that they and the six participating unions will “strictly follow any directive given that would impact sporting events,” but for the moment the tournament would continue as planned across the men’s, women’s and U20 competitions.

“As it stands today, based on the latest information, all Six Nations matches currently scheduled are set to go ahead,” it said in a statement.

“Six Nations is in contact with FIR [Italian Rugby Federation] and the RFU regarding the possibility of relocating the Women’s and U20 Italy vs England matches to another Italian location and we will make a further announcement on this in due course. However, the Italy vs England Senior Men’s match in Rome is planned to go ahead as scheduled.

“Six Nations intends to complete all 15 games across all three Championships when time allows but we will refrain from making any rescheduling announcements for the time being while we keep assessing the situation.”

The game between Ireland and Italy – which was due to be held in Dublin on 7th March – was postponed due to the outbreak of the virus after the IRFU met with Irish public health officials. 

Elsewhere, after this week’s reports that the competition could move from free-to-air TV after 2022, The Times has reported that Amazon could bid for rights to broadcast the Six Nations on its Prime Video platform.