Organisers of the Six Nations rugby tournament have dismissed speculation that reigning world champions South Africa could replace Italy in the competition in the coming years.
“Six Nations Rugby, comprising the six Unions and Federations and CVC, wish to confirm that they are not entertaining any discussion nor developing any plans to add or replace any participating Union,” a statement from the organisers released on Friday said.
“All its energy is focused on the current strategic regarding the July and November internationals windows and structure of the global season, and to ensure a positive outcome for the development of the game.”
The statement comes in the wake of a report earlier in the week that South Africa was set to replace Italy once the Springboks’ contract with the Rugby Championship expired in 2025.
Despite South Africa committing to the southern hemisphere tournament – which includes New Zealand, Australia and Argentina – there have been persistent murmurs of discontent and South Africa being open to a move away from it.
The speculation was also heightened by the fact four South African sides – the Sharks, Bulls, Stormers and Lions – were allowed to compete in the United Rugby Championship (URC) against provincial teams from Wales, Ireland, Scotland and Italy.
The South African clubs will also be eligible to compete in both the European Champions and Challenge Cups, which includes teams from England and France, as from next season.
Meanwhile, Italy has performed abysmally in the Six Nations, especially in recent years losing 34 successive matches in the competition stretching all the way back to 2015.
The Azzurri’s performances have led sections of fans and pundits to question their place in the tournament.
(Story compiled with assistance from wire reports)
