– Updated 2025 –
The Rugby Six Nations provides an excellent opportunity for sports and social clubs. Here is everything clubs need to know about the Six Nations:
When is the Six Nations?
The Six Nations starts 31st January 2025 with France vs Wales. It will then see games every weekend, Saturdays and Sundays (with a gap on the 15th – 16th of February, and 1st – 2nd March) up until the final round weekend of Saturday 15th March.
How to watch the rugby Six Nations?
Six Nations fixtures will be shown on the BBC and ITV1. Live streams are available for free at BBC iPlayer or ITVX. However the best environment to watch the six nations is at your local sports and social club.
Clubs should look to show these games, advertise on signs ahead of time, put up posters, and perhaps send out flyers. These games are some of the most watched sporting events of the year, so showing them should hopefully get clubs a few extra customers.
Which teams to look out for?
There are really only two runners in this six horse race. France are many bookies’ favourites, with the best player in the world leading their roster. However last year’s winners Ireland are expected winners, hoping to make this year three-in-row.
Rugby is a sport with a fair few surprises, and it’s not unheard of for an unlikley winner to be crowned six nations champions. Every game will be exciting, with breakthrough players debuting every weekend.
Yet the most likley outcome is that the championship will all come down to the penultimate weekend, in Dublin, where Ireland host France. CLubs should set their sights on this game – 2pm on Sunday 8th March.
Everything sports and social clubs need to prepare before hosting a Rugby Six Nations event:
Overcrowding Management
If your showing the Six Nations or holding an event, your event could very easily become overcrowded. Ensure you do not exceed the capacity of your venue. Be prepared by clearing space for walking lanes, offering outdoor seating, and perhaps ticketing your event.
Security
Sport, alcohol and competition can result in poor behaviour. An increase of guests to your premises can also pose security threats. Keep everything safe and secure with CCTV and signs showing there are cameras in operation.
Glass
Pint glasses and other glass where is not recommended when showing the Six Nations. These can very easily be broken by guests, during celebrations and during difficult periods, and especially during busy England games. Instead, use Polypropylene glasses to minimise the danger from broken glass.
If you decide to allow bottles, make sure that they are cleared regularly and that any spills or breakages are dealt with immediately due to the higher risk of injury to patrons.
Managing bad behaviour
It’s your obligation as the licensee to make sure that there is minimal nuisance to local residents during the games and afterwards as people make their way home.
Organise with taxi companies to ensure transportation is available for patrons. This will help to reduce risk of incident.
Food and Drink
Clubhouses may want to stock up on food and drinks before the game, ensuring businesses can maximise their take during the event.
Rugby Six Nations Event Insurance
With added capacity comes added risk, and you may not be covered under your existing policy terms if you hold an outdoor event. Please contact your account handler at Club Insure to enquire about whether extra insurance for an event is required.
When England playing in the Six Nations?
The first game is:
England vs Ireland – February 1st
And then the following games are:
England vs France – February 8th at 4:45pm
England vs Scotland – February 22th at 4:45pm
England vs Italy – March 9th at 3pm
England vs Wales – March 15th at 4:45pm
