Qatar has reportedly emerged as surprise bidders for the Nations Championship rugby finals, as the Middle Eastern country proposes a three-day ‘Super Bowl of rugby’.
According to the UK’s Daily Mail, the Gulf nation aims to stage six playoff matches between Six Nations and southern hemisphere giants, starting from November 2026, across multiple venues in Doha, including the illustrious Lusail Stadium, the 2022 Fifa World Cup final venue.
Reports indicate Qatar’s offer could yield commercial returns of up to £800 million (R19 billion) over eight years.
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Under the proposed format, Europe’s top-ranked team would clash with the leading southern hemisphere side like the world champion Springboks in a grand final to crown the championship victors. Other matchups would see teams ranked accordingly, ensuring thrilling encounters.
Collaborating with sports agency Pitch International, it is believed that Qatar aims to persuade the tournament’s stakeholders, including the Six Nations and southern hemisphere powerhouses Sanzaar, to embrace its visionary bid. Talks are under way, with optimism surrounding Qatar’s bold move.
Photo: Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP