​The Six Nations Championship will continue to be broadcast on free-to-air television in the United Kingdom until 2029, following a new four-year agreement between the BBC and ITV. This deal, commencing in 2026, ensures that rugby fans can access the tournament without subscription fees. ​

Under the terms of the agreement, ITV will air all of England’s matches, totaling ten games per championship, while the BBC will broadcast five matches annually, focusing on Scotland and Wales home games, provided they are not against England. This arrangement signifies a shift from previous deals, where both broadcasters shared coverage of England’s fixtures. ​

Financially, the deal is valued at approximately £63 million per year, with ITV contributing a larger share. This figure represents an increase from the previous £90 million arrangement, reflecting the growing value and popularity of the tournament. ​

The agreement also extends to the Women’s Six Nations and the Under-20 Six Nations competitions, with the BBC securing exclusive rights to these events until 2029. This move underscores a commitment to promoting and increasing visibility for women’s and youth rugby. ​

The decision to keep the Six Nations on free-to-air television comes amid concerns that the tournament could move to subscription-based services, which might limit accessibility for a broader audience. Rugby stakeholders, including chief executives and players, have expressed satisfaction with the deal, emphasizing the importance of maintaining maximum visibility to foster the sport’s growth. ​
In summary, the renewed partnership between the BBC and ITV ensures that the Six Nations Championship remains accessible to all viewers in the UK, preserving the tradition of free-to-air broadcasting and supporting the development of rugby at all levels.