ITV Sport faces losing the Six Nations – the end of an era looms

Yesterday at 06:26 AM

ITV could be on the verge of losing their Six Nations TV rights next year after their coverage came under fire from fans and pundits alike.

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The tournament, a staple of terrestrial television since its inception, is currently shared between ITV and the BBC. However, growing dissatisfaction with their coverage has sparked debate over whether a single broadcaster should take over.

A Changing Rugby Landscape

With premium sports channels like TNT Sports and Amazon Prime continuing to expand their rugby portfolios, the battle for the next TV rights deal is heating up. Under the current arrangement, BBC airs all Wales and Scotland home matches, while ITV broadcasts England, Ireland, France, and Italy's home fixtures.

But this could all change in 2026, when the current contract expires. According to RugbyPass, TNT Sports is weighing up a potential bid, with the next deal potentially rising to £100m—an increase from the current £90m ITV and BBC partnership.

Calls for a Shake-Up

The prospect of a single broadcaster taking full control of the Six Nations has gained traction, with former England lock and TV pundit Martin Bayfield voicing his support for change.

"Rugby just can't hide away and only jump out from behind a tree and say, 'Here we are!' and then disappear again," Bayfield told The Telegraph. "The Six Nations has to be free-to-air and has to be on one platform so you have one focus, one message, one tone."

He added: "Every Six Nations game should be like a mini Super Bowl, with press conferences, player interviews, and superstar involvement throughout the week."

The Finn Russell Controversy

ITV's latest blunder came during Scotland's Calcutta Cup clash with England, when Finn Russell lined up a crucial late conversion that could have snatched victory for the Scots. However, ITV's camera work left viewers in disbelief.

Instead of the traditional behind-the-kicker angle, ITV bizarrely cut to the assistant referee's flag, leaving fans unable to see the trajectory of the ball. A replay eventually confirmed that Russell had missed—but by then, the damage was done.

Former England fly-half Andy Goode led the backlash on X (formerly Twitter), writing: "What happened to seeing the potential match-winning kick from Finn Russell? Poor, poor show, not seeing the live angle from behind."

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Jonathan 'Jiffy' Davies picks his greatest all-time British & Irish Lions XV

Dual-code rugby legend Jonathan Davies has undertaken the formidable task of selecting his ultimate British & Irish Lions XV for his new book, The Greatest Lions XV Ever, co-authored with Alun Wyn Bevan and published by Gomer Press.

All-Time Lions Dream Team

Fullback: JPR Williams (Wales)

John Peter Rhys “JPR” Williams was a cornerstone of Welsh rugby during the 1970s. Known for his fearless defense and counter-attacking prowess, he earned 55 caps for Wales and participated in eight Tests for the Lions. His iconic playing style, characterized by low socks and distinctive sideburns, left an indelible mark on the sport.

Jiffy said: “In attack, JPR was to be seen either working in tandem with his wing three-quarters or terrifying defensive lines. He was also a towering figure in defence, safe as houses under a high ball and with a penchant for demolishing attackers.”

Wing: Gerald Davies (Wales)

Thomas Gerald Reames Davies, celebrated for his electrifying speed and sidestep, was instrumental in Wales’ dominance during the 1970s. Earning 46 caps for Wales and five for the Lions, his agility and tactical acumen made him a formidable opponent.

Jiffy said: “I have so many fond memories of seeing him taking on opponents—often with a swagger which very few have the right to exhibit. He wove, he probed, he varied his angles of running and was always in position to counter-attack from deep in tandem with his full-back.”

Centre: Jeremy Guscott (England)

Jeremy Guscott was renowned for his elegance and composure on the field. With 65 caps for England and eight for the Lions, his intuitive play and versatility made him a central figure in the backline.

Jiffy said: “Jerry restored fans' faith in the aesthetic and artistic qualities of the game. I always appreciated his effortless style. Opponents were unable to predict whether he was going to run, pass or kick. Everything he did was instinctive, and this made him a very difficult player to read.”

Centre: Mike Gibson (Ireland)

Michael Gibson, a stalwart of Irish rugby, was celebrated for his versatility and footballing intelligence. Accumulating 69 caps for Ireland and 12 for the Lions, his adaptability allowed him to excel in multiple backline positions.

Jiffy said: “Mike Gibson was the complete footballer, 'phenomenal' according to The New Zealand Rugby Annual. In an interview, Brian O'Driscoll paid a sincere tribute to one of Irish rugby's greatest ever players: 'At times when Irish rugby wasn't successful, he was always the shining light.'”

Wing: JJ Williams (Wales)

John James “JJ” Williams, with his background as a sprinter, brought exceptional pace to the rugby field. Earning 30 caps for Wales and seven for the Lions, his try-scoring ability was pivotal in many crucial matches.

Jiffy said: “His combination of electrifying speed and breathtaking audacity disarmed organised defences on the Lions tour of South Africa in 1974.”

Fly-half: Barry John (Wales)

Barry John, dubbed “The King,” was celebrated for his tactical brilliance and composure under pressure. With 25 caps for Wales and five for the Lions, his performance on the 1971 New Zealand tour solidified his legendary status.

Jiffy said: “Who is it to be, Phil or Barry? Roy of the Rovers or The King? My heart says Phil. My head says Barry. And, ultimately, it is with my head that I have to pick this team. For what he achieved in New Zealand in 1971, Barry John will wear the No 10 shirt.”

Scrum-half: Gareth Edwards (Wales)

Gareth Edwards is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time. With 53 caps for Wales and 10 for the Lions, his dynamic play and leadership were instrumental in his teams’ successes.

Jiffy said: “If you put on the field the 15 best players to have played in the distinctive Lions red, the No 9 shirt would automatically be handed to Gareth Owen Edwards.”

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