Senedd Members Urge Six Nations Stay Free-to-Air

As the Six Nations Championship approaches, concerns are mounting about the potential shift of broadcasting rights from free-to-air platforms to subscription services. England captain Maro Itoje emphasized the importance of keeping the tournament accessible to a wider audience, recalling his own experiences growing up watching the games on BBC and ITV. In Wales, Senedd members, including Plaid Cymru's Heledd Fychan, echoed these sentiments, arguing that viewing national teams should not be a privilege limited to those who can afford subscriptions, as it ties into national identity and cultural unity. With TNT Sports reportedly leading the bid for the rights, there is anxiety that the championship could disappear behind a paywall from 2026, which could significantly reduce viewer engagement. The current broadcasting deal, shared by ITV and the BBC, is set to expire, prompting discussions on the future of the tournament's visibility. Stakeholders in Ireland are also wary of losing free-to-air access, with negotiations for the next broadcasting package expected to begin soon.