The Six Nations is one of Rugby‘s biggest competitions. The tournament has been on free to air television for the past two decades.

However, all that might be about to change following a new rule that would eliminate joint bids.

The BBC and ITV have the rights until 2022 but, when the bidding process begins it is unlikely either broadcaster could outbid the giant of Sky.

Sky have expressed the intention to hold the rights to the tournament. They had bid the last time the rights were available but were outbid by the BBC and ITV’s joint offer.

A BBC spokesperson said:

“Whilst we wouldn’t comment on the specifics of an ongoing rights negotiation.

“Terrestrial channels have brought unprecedented viewing figures to the Six Nations, ensuring that rugby remains a sport that is very much relevant and enjoyed by as wide an audience as possible and we very much hope that will continue.”

Whoever secures the rights would hold them until at least 2024 the deal is rumoured to be worth £300 million.

(Photo by Gartxoak, under creative commons license.)