Stars and Stripes Incoming? USA Tipped to Join Six Nations ‘Very Soon’

Thursday, 01 May 2025 at 20:29

byRugby Rucker

be played abroad in future.

Bill Goren, the chief executive of USA Rugby, has revealed discussions have taken place around bringing
Six Nations clashes across the Atlantic — and he’s not shy about the ambition.

Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia

With the men’s Rugby World Cup landing in the USA in 2031, the women’s edition following in 2033, and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles featuring rugby sevens, America’s rugby revolution is well underway.

Now, the Six Nations could be next.

“We have discussed that,” Goren told Mail Online, admitting the USA is very much open to staging future Six Nations matches.

? “It’s not about high-performance – it’s marketing gold”

While Goren admitted the move wouldn’t do much for Team USA’s competitiveness on the pitch, it could be a marketing masterstroke.

“That doesn't necessarily help on the high-performance side for USA Rugby, but for the marketing side it does.

What we’re constantly doing is trying to work with different nations to get the right level of competition,” he explained.

And the schedule is already heating up…

?? USA vs England in Washington – July 2025
? USA heads to Scotland – November 2025
? Ireland vs New Zealand in Chicago – also November

? “Marquee events to subsidise the rest”

“We’ve got more USA games in 2025 than we’ve had in years,” said Goren. “As long as it’s collaborative and part of a strategy to pull people into the game, you’ll see more of these big events.”

But Goren isn’t just after blockbuster fixtures between European giants.

“My preference would be that the marquee teams coming in don’t come to play each other.
I want them to come to play us – the USA.”

? Six Nations chief didn’t shut the door

Earlier this year, Six Nations CEO Tom Harrison hinted that Championship matches could

While nothing is confirmed, it’s clear: America is ready to roll out the red carpet.

ferees Confirmed for British & Irish Lions Tests – One Has Survived a Stabbing on the Pitch

Appointments were made based on experience, form, and neutrality. World Rugby has emphasised a collaborative approach between referees and coaches for the July window, aiming to foster consistency and alignment ahead of Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.

First Test: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand)

A qualified ophthalmologist off the field, Ben O’Keeffe is one of the world’s most experienced referees.

Since making his test debut in 2016, he has officiated at multiple Rugby World Cups and was in charge of the second test during the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa.

Known for his calm authority and clear communication, O’Keeffe brings extensive experience to the opening test in Brisbane.

Second test: Andrea Piardi (Italy)

Andrea Piardi will make history in Melbourne as the first Italian to referee a British & Irish Lions test.

A rising star in the officiating world, Piardi has impressed in both the United Rugby Championship and international fixtures, earning praise for his control at the breakdown and consistency at the scrum.

His appointment is a major milestone for Italian refereeing on the global stage.

Third test: Nika Amashukeli (Georgia)

A trailblazer for Georgian rugby, Nika Amashukeli has rapidly become one of the most respected referees in the game.

A former player whose career was cut short by injury, he transitioned to officiating and made his test debut in 2021.

The third test in Sydney will be his 30th at international level, and he becomes the first Georgian to referee a Lions test—capping a remarkable journey for both himself and his country.

QUIZ: Can you name the 2013 British & Irish Lions squad?

12 years have passed since Warren Gatland’s men roared to a famous series win over Australia, but how well do you really remember the iconic 2013 British & Irish Lions squad?

From legendary leaders to surprise selections, we’ve lined up every player from that unforgettable tour. All you have to do is name them. No pressure, right?

Take the quiz below and prove your rugby brain still bites.

? Scroll down and get cracking – how many can you get without cheating?

Statement: Bath confirms 15 players have signed new deals

Johnny Sexton Takes Aim at Warren Gatland in Fiery Lions Row