Six Nations Welcomes Georgia and Portugal to Under-18 Championship, Fuelling Speculation of Broader Senior Men’s Competition

Six Nations Welcomes Georgia and Portugal to Under-18 Championship, Fuelling Speculation of Broader Senior Men’s Competition

In a progressive move, the Six Nations has taken a step towards broader inclusion by inviting Georgia and Portugal to participate in its Under-18 Championship.

The eight-team junior men’s competition, featuring established nations England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France, and Italy, alongside the newcomers, signals a positive shift in age-group rugby within the Six Nations.

Six Nations Sets Precedent with Expansion: Georgia and Portugal Added to Under-18 Championship, Senior Men’s Tournament Contemplated

The decision to include Georgia and Portugal in the Under-18 Championship showcases a willingness to broaden horizons within the Six Nations.

While the senior Six Nations, for both men and women, remains exclusive, the move has sparked discussions about potential expansion at the senior level.

Suggestions include a promotion and relegation game between the bottom team of the men’s tournament and the top Rugby Europe team.

Six Nations Welcomes Georgia and Portugal to Under-18 Championship, Fuelling Speculation of Broader Senior Men’s Competition

Georgia, having impressed with victories against Wales and Italy in 2022, is actively advocating for inclusion in the senior men’s Six Nations. T

he president of Georgia Rugby, Soso Tkemaladze, expressed gratitude for the Under-18 Championship invitation and emphasized the nation’s desire to become a permanent fixture in the senior Six Nations.

Georgia’s Push for Senior Six Nations Gathers Momentum as Under-18 Championship Includes New Entrants

Georgia’s ambition for senior Six Nations participation gained momentum following their success in the Under-20 international against England last year.

Tkemaladze highlighted the significance of recognition for Georgia’s Under-20s and urged swift acknowledgment of their capabilities based on consistent performances against top nations.

Six Nations Embraces Expansion: Georgia and Portugal Join Under-18 Championship Amid Calls for Senior Men’s Tournament Inclusion

While the participation of Georgia and Portugal in the Under-18 Championship is confirmed for 2024, discussions around a broader senior men’s competition persist.

Georgia’s noteworthy victories in 2022 and Portugal’s commendable performance at the World Cup in France add weight to the argument for expanding the senior Six Nations.

The inclusion of these nations in the Under-18 Championship signals a positive shift, paving the way for potential developments at the senior level.

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