Rugby Union: Six Nations Trophy Fire Damage
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
It has been reported that the Six Nations trophy is to be replaced after suffering fire damage caused by an accident whilst in transit.
As a result, the manufacturers have decided that the trophy cannot be restored to its former state.
The trophy is 75 cm tall and made of silver and was created in 2015 to reflect the tournament's evolution to six teams after Italy joined in 2000.
The organisers stated that:
“The trophy sustained fire damage and following an assessment by the official trophy manufacturer, unfortunately, it cannot be restored to its full presentation standard.”
And added that:
"In keeping with these presentation standards, respect for the significance of winning the Six Nations - one of sport's most prestigious titles - and to preserve the integrity of the trophy and its heritage, it will be retired from ceremonial use."
The new trophy will be ready for the 2027 edition of the tournament, whose origins date back to 1883, and, in the meantime, an "identical exhibition trophy" will be used.
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
