Rugby fans have erupted in anger after World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin hinted that future Six Nations matches could be staged in the United States, as part of efforts to expand the sport’s presence ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup.

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Speaking ahead of an upcoming fixture, Gilpin revealed that World Rugby is exploring the idea of bringing more top-level games to American soil — potentially including matches from both the Six Nations and The Rugby Championship.

“There are many different opportunities,” Gilpin said. “Can we bring regular season and other games? Can we bring some TRC games? Can we bring in the future Six Nations games here?

“There are more possibilities we want to explore, and we are looking at how we can collectively incentivise during this five-year runway. Not only will all those unions benefit from the experience and the commercial opportunity, but we will build a rugby audience here which will deliver a brilliant 2031 success for us all.”

However, the suggestion has gone down terribly with traditional rugby supporters, who see the move as another step towards commercialising the game at the expense of fans.

🗣️ Fan Reaction

One fan wrote:

“This is infuriating. Turning rugby into R360 probably isn’t the solution.”

Another commented:

“As if a day in Cardiff isn’t expensive enough already! Lunatics running the asylum.”

A third fan fumed:

“Get in the f***ing bin.”

Another added:

“Another f***ing silly idea.”

One more summed up the mood:

“What a load of bollocks. I don’t care if Americans want to watch it — they should have to come here.”

2026 Six Nations Fixtures Announced: England Set for Dream Start

The 2026 Six Nations fixtures have officially been confirmed — and England fans are in for a dream start. 

🏉 2026 Six Nations Fixtures: Round-by-Round Guide

ROUND 1

Thursday 5th February 2026
🇫🇷 France v Ireland
📍 Venue TBC
🕗 Kick-off: 8:10pm

Saturday 7th February 2026
🇮🇹 Italy v Scotland
📍 Stadio Olimpico, Rome
🕑 Kick-off: 2:10pm

🏟️ England v Wales
📍 Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
🕟 Kick-off: 4:40pm

ROUND 2

Saturday 14th February 2026
☘️ Ireland v Italy
📍 Aviva Stadium, Dublin
🕑 Kick-off: 2:10pm

🏴 Scotland v England
📍 Murrayfield, Edinburgh
🕟 Kick-off: 4:40pm

Sunday 15th February 2026
🐉 Wales v France
📍 Principality Stadium, Cardiff
🕒 Kick-off: 3:10pm

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO

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