The Six Nations trophy has been destroyed by fire midway through this year’s championship, rugby’s governing body has confirmed.
A van transporting the prestigious silverware caught alight in Ireland, causing severe damage to the coveted prize.
Fortunately, nobody travelling in the vehicle sustained injuries during the incident.
Six Nations Rugby released a statement acknowledging the trophy could not be restored to “full presentation standard” following the blaze.
The organisation has now outlined its plans for both the remainder of the current tournament and future championships, with the original piece of silverware officially retired from service.
The silver trophy was originally crafted in 2015 and had been presented to championship winners for over a decade before meeting its untimely end.
According to Six Nations Rugby, the extent of the fire damage meant restoration was simply not feasible, with the piece unable to meet the required standards for official presentation.
Who has won the most Six Nations titles? | PAAs a result, the governing body took the decision to permanently retire the original trophy from competitive use.
The silverware had become one of rugby union’s most recognisable prizes, lifted by champions from across the home nations and continental Europe throughout its eleven-year history.
For the ongoing 2026 competition, organisers have confirmed that this year’s victors will be presented with an identical replica when the championship concludes on 15th March.
Looking further ahead, work is already underway on a permanent replacement that will honour the legacy of the damaged original.
The governing body stated: “A new Trophy will be commissioned in the same design as the original, with materials from the original being incorporated into the new Trophy, ensuring its history is respectfully transferred to the new creation.”
Craftsmen will require approximately 365 hours to complete the new piece, which will be ready in time for the 2027 championship.
Six Nations chiefs have released a statement
| PAWith three rounds of fixtures completed, defending champions France currently sit atop the standings on 15 points, placing them in prime position to claim the replica trophy later this month.
Scotland occupy second place, having accumulated 11 points from their opening three matches of the campaign.
Ireland, despite hosting the unfortunate incident that claimed the original silverware, remain in contention for a podium finish with nine points.
The newly commissioned trophy, incorporating salvaged materials from the fire-damaged original, will be presented to whoever triumphs in next year’s competition, ensuring the championship’s heritage continues into a new era.