Six Nations

The Six Nations is one of rugby union’s biggest and most prestigious tournaments. The competition is held annually between the teams of England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales. There’s also a women’s version of the Six Nations, which sees the same teams compete.

The Six Nations is the successor to the Home Nations Championship (1883-1909 and 1932-1939), which was the first international rugby union tournament ever held when it was contested by England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. In 1910, France was added to the tournament, which became known as the Five Nations Championship (held 1910-1931 and 1947-1999). The tournament finally became known as the rugby Six Nations when Italy were added in 2000.

Although teams competing in the Six Nations compete for the Championship Trophy, a number of other trophies are also up for grabs. For example, if a team wins all five of their Six Nations matches, they claim what’s known as the Grand Slam. Similarly, if one of the home nations (England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales) wins all of their Six Nations matches against the other home nations, they win what’s known as the Triple Crown. On top of this, so-called rivalry trophies are also available. For example, England and Scotland’s Six Nations matches are for the Calcutta Cup and France and Italy play for the Giuseppe Garibaldi Trophy.

Overall, England remain the most successful team in rugby Six Nations history. They’ve won the title 29 times, with Wales the next closest on 27. Of all the teams that take part in the Six Nations, Italy are the only team who have not won the tournament.

Take a look below where you’ll find all the latest news about this year’s Six Nations Championship, including details about results and upcoming Six Nations matches.