ITV secures free-to-air rights for Nations Championship rugby tournament

ITV has won the free-to-air rights for the Nations Championship in the UK, for its first two editions – this year and in 2028.

The Nations Championship is a new international rugby tournament featuring the 12 strongest nations in the sport. It was created through a joint venture by Six Nations Rugby and SANZAAR (South African, New Zealand, Australian and Argentina Rugby) and will debut in July 2026.

The aim is to transform the July and November international rugby windows into a single competitive tournament, every two years. 

Outside of a Nations Championship year, ITV will deliver coverage of the Summer Nations Series, as teams prepare for Rugby World Cup 2027, as well the Autumn Nations Series.

Tom Harrison, CEO of Six Nations Rugby, said: “This is more than a new partnership with ITV; it is a statement of intent for the future of rugby. Every major moment from the Six Nations and Nations Championship will be available, free-to-air, for the next four years, giving fans unprecedented access to the best of international rugby. Coupled with significant investment in the sport, from ITV, the game has never been in a stronger position.”

Brendan Morris, CEO of SANZAAR, added: “The Nations Championship is a game changer for rugby union. It brings together the strongest 12 international teams, and the best players, to compete in a uniquely competitive tournament format that will drive global relevance for the sport. The joint venture between SANZAAR and Six Nations Rugby highlights the power of collaboration off the pitch to drive rugby’s growth on the field. Confirmation of the new broadcast partnership is testament to the strength of the Nations Championship format and gives rugby an incredible platform to build from for the years to come.”

Niall Sloane, ITV director of sport,said: “This is a landmark deal for ITV Sport in securing the future of free-to-air rugby coverage for a UK audience. With a minimum of 124 international matches in the coming four years, we look forward to showcasing the very best of global rugby to enable the game to grow.”