BBC staff braced for Six Nations exit – Wales vs England set to be farewell clash

Wednesday, 12 March 2025 at 11:58

byRugby Rucker

The BBC’s coverage of the Six Nations could be coming to an end, with this weekend’s Wales vs England clash potentially the last match the broadcaster airs from the iconic tournament.

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TNT Sports has publicly thrown its hat in the ring to snatch the rights from 2026 onwards, sparking concerns that rugby’s biggest annual competition may no longer be available on free-to-air TV.

BBC on the ropes

Right now, the BBC holds the rights to Wales and Scotland’s home games, while ITV broadcasts those from England, Ireland, France, and Italy. But if TNT gets its way, fans may have to fork out for a subscription to watch next year’s tournament.

According to The Telegraph, BBC insiders are already bracing for the worst, fearing their Six Nations team is covering its final tournament.

Does the BBC even want it?

Doubts have also been raised over how much BBC director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski—who took over in April 2024—actually cares about rugby. That said, free-to-air broadcasters will still have a shot at securing the next TV deal, as it won’t simply go to the highest bidder.

For now, the BBC is up against it financially. Former director Barbara Slater warned last year that the corporation could no longer afford the Six Nations, with the UK government declining to add it to its list of protected ‘crown jewel’ sporting events.

Instead, that exclusive club includes the Rugby World Cup final, the football World Cups, the Olympic Games, and Wimbledon—leaving the Six Nations exposed to a potential paywall.

TNT breaks silence on mega-money deal

Reports suggest TNT is closing in on a £100m agreement to take over the rights, offering £10m more than the BBC and ITV’s current deal (2022-2025).

However, the broadcaster has hinted that free-to-air channels might still have a role. A TNT spokesperson told Broadcast Sport:

"While we think the Six Nations is the best international rugby competition in the world, its important partnership with free-to-air television across the UK and Ireland, but particularly in markets like Wales and Ireland, would make our involvement very challenging."

With a final decision set to be made by the six competing unions, will the BBC pull off a last-gasp survival act, or is the Six Nations about to disappear behind a paywall?

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Four surprise contenders for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour

The 2025 British & Irish Lions tour might seem a long way off, but the Six Nations is already shaping the selection race.

While established names dominate predictions, a few unexpected players are forcing their way into contention.

Whether it's experienced heads rediscovering form or rising stars making a statement, here are four potential bolters who could book a ticket to Australia next year.

Elliot Daly (England) – The veteran bolter

A "bolter" is usually an uncapped or emerging star, but Elliot Daly is flipping that narrative. Already a two-time Lions tourist (2017, 2021), the England utility back wasn’t in many early squad predictions.

However, his composed performances this Six Nations have made Farrell take notice. With five Lions Test caps and the ability to cover multiple positions, Daly’s experience could prove invaluable when selection time comes around.

Jac Morgan (Wales) – The Welsh warrior

Jac Morgan is one of the few Welsh players making a genuine case for Lions selection. Despite Wales' struggles, the dynamic flanker has shone, earning praise from Sam Warburton, who even tipped him as a potential tour captain.

Tough at the breakdown, relentless in defence, and an intelligent leader, Morgan is proving he belongs at the highest level. If he keeps performing, his Lions ticket could be a certainty.

Jamie Ritchie (Scotland) – The late surge

Scotland’s former captain is finding form at exactly the right time. Ritchie has been immense in recent games, showcasing his breakdown prowess, defensive solidity, and lineout ability.

While Scotland's back-row competition is fierce, his relentless work rate and leadership qualities set him apart. If he maintains this level, Farrell could see him as a crucial piece of the Lions puzzle, particularly against Australia’s physical pack.

Tommy Freeman (England) – The rising star

Freeman is going from strength to strength in this Six Nations. His latest display against Italy highlighted his work rate, power, and eye for the try-line.

Currently sitting second in the tournament’s try-scoring charts, he is proving to be one of England’s most dangerous attacking threats. With his blend of pace and physicality, Freeman is making a serious case for a Lions spot—if he keeps this up, he’ll be impossible to overlook.

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