Six Nations Rugby: Guide, Schedule, and Tips

If you love fast‑paced rugby and a bit of friendly rivalry, the Six Nations is the event you mark on your calendar. Every February and March the best European teams face off, and the atmosphere is electric. This guide gives you the basics you need so you never miss a moment.

What is the Six Nations?

The Six Nations started as the Home Nations in the 1880s and grew to include France in 1910 and Italy in 2000. Today the tournament features England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. Each team plays five matches, one against every other side, and points decide the champion. A win gives four points, a draw two, and a bonus point is added for scoring four tries or losing by seven or fewer.

How to Watch and Follow the Action

The tournament runs over seven weekends, with games normally on Saturdays and Sundays. Check the official schedule early so you can plan which matches fit your schedule. If you want to be in the stadium, buy tickets from the team’s official website or the Six Nations ticket portal – they release a limited batch months ahead, so act fast.

If you stay home, the BBC and ITV share live coverage in the UK. Both channels stream the games through their online services, and the Six Nations app offers live stats, replays, and a radar for key moments. Outside the UK, look for local broadcasters or the official Six Nations YouTube channel for highlights.

Social media is a great companion. Follow the tournament hashtag #SixNations and the accounts of each team for real‑time updates, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes clips. Podcasts like "Six Nations Weekly" break down tactics after every round, making it easy to catch up on the go.

When you’re at the stadium, bring a raincoat – British weather is unpredictable – and wear the colors of the side you support. Arrive early to soak up the fan zone, grab a proper bite from the food stalls, and soak in the chants. If you’re traveling, book your train or bus tickets early; match days see heavy traffic around the venues.

Finally, keep an eye on the points table after each round. Bonus points can swing the title race, and the Grand Slam (winning all five games) adds extra glory. Knowing where your team stands helps you understand the stakes of every kick.

With these tips you’re ready to enjoy every try, tackle, and celebration the Six Nations throws at you. Grab your scarf, set up your streaming, and let the games begin!