Six Nations and Sanzaar face new battle with World Rugby in bid to scrap relegation

The Six Nations and Sanzaar face renewed tensions with World Rugby over efforts by some unions to avoid relegation from the Nations Championship. Ten leading unions established a new entity, F10, to operate the tournament and manage commercial rights, prompting concerns that founding members like Wales and Italy seek protection from dropping into the second-tier Nations Cup.

World Rugby previously mandated promotion and relegation starting in 2030 as a condition for approving the tournament. Ringfencing founding members would require council approval, risking significant political conflict. While the Six Nations officially maintains relegation will occur, member unions continue lobbying over parachute payments and potential exemptions.