South Africa are interested in joining the Six Nations from 2025
(Picture: Getty Images)Six Nations organisers have insisted they are not currently looking to change the format of the championship, amid talk South Africa could be included at the expense of Italy.
South Africa have a long-standing interest in joining the Six Nations and it was revealed earlier this week that they have informed Sanzaar, southern hemisphere rugby’s governing body, that they are exploring the possibility of doing so from 2025.
The Springboks are tied to the Rugby Championship - in which they compete alongside Argentina, Australia and New Zealand - until then, as part of a broadcast deal.
After that, however, they may look to join the Six Nations and it has been mooted that their inclusion could spell the end of Italy’s involvement.
Italy have not won a game in the championship since 2015 and there have previously been calls for them to face the threat of relegation.
Six Nations organisers, however, have now come out and stressed they are currently not in talks with anyone about altering the format of the championship.
In a statement this morning, tournament organisers said: “Six Nations Rugby, comprising the six Unions and Federations and CVC, wish to confirm that they are not entertaining any discussion nor developing any plans to add or replace any participating Union.
“All its energy is focused on the current strategic discussions regarding the July and November international windows and structure of the global season, and to ensure a positive outcome for the development of the game.”
