The hypothesis came up regularly.
The integration of South Africa - which has the advantage of not having a time difference with Europe - in the Six Nations Tournament.
Like other rumours, that of a transition to eight nations with Japan in addition for example.
But the arrival of a new investor last year, the CVC fund, which put 400 million euros on the table, accelerated the projects.
And, according to information from the Daily Mail, the cause is heard.
The Springboks will join the more than century-old competition.
And not in addition, but instead of Italy.
To discover
Ranking Tournament 6 of Nations
Calendar and results 6 Nations
A condition that is already causing a stir.
The Italian federation is rebelling, supported by some leaders of European rugby despite its disastrous results (no match won since 2015, six wooden spoons in a row).
Asked last fall about this possibility, the director general of the Six Nations, Ben Morel, had not excluded anything.
“
We are quite happy with what we have.
But we are sure it could be improved…
”
South African franchises in the European Cup next season
This Wednesday, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina renewed their commitment to the Rugby Championship - the equivalent of the Tournament for the southern hemisphere - for three more years.
But the South African federation makes no secret of its wish to switch to the north.
The South African franchises have also anticipated this geographical shift.
They now compete in the United Rugby Championship (URC) with Welsh, Scottish, Irish and Italian teams.
And they will participate in the European Cups from next season.
According to the Daily Mail, CVC has done its accounts and projections.
And indicates that such a reform would ensure substantial commercial gains for the Six Nations.
In accordance with the mission he had assigned himself when signing their entry into the capital last March: "
to develop broader commercial capacities and attract a new, more diversified and global fan base
".
Financial prospects that weigh at a time when world rugby is suffering serious losses linked to the Covid pandemic.