Rugby Europe International Championships

The Rugby Europe International Championships is the main rugby union competition for European nations outside the Six Nations, held annually across the continent. Featuring multiple divisions, it brings together over 30 national teams from countries such as Georgia, Romania, Portugal, Spain, and Germany, with matches typically played from autumn through spring.

• Features over 30 national teams across multiple divisions
• Founded in 1936, with roots in the FIRA competitions
• Top division known as 'Six Nations B', now with eight teams
• Promotion and relegation between divisions each season
• Matches hosted in cities like Tbilisi, Bucharest, and Lisbon

What it is

The Rugby Europe International Championships is the leading rugby union tournament for European countries not part of the Six Nations. It is structured in several divisions, with national teams competing for promotion, trophies, and continental pride. The event is a showcase for the depth and diversity of European rugby, giving emerging and established teams a stage to test themselves and build their rugby cultures. For many nations, it is the pinnacle of their rugby calendar, drawing passionate crowds and fostering regional rivalries.

Where it comes from

The competition traces its roots to the 1930s, when France, after being excluded from the Five Nations, joined with other European teams to form the International Amateur Rugby Federation (FIRA). Early tournaments were held from 1936, with France dominating. Over the decades, the event evolved through various names and formats, reflecting the changing landscape of European rugby. In 2000, the divisional system was established, and the current multi-tiered structure emerged in 2016, broadening participation and creating a clear pathway for teams to progress.

How it is celebrated

Each year, national teams from across Europe compete in a series of matches, divided into Championship, Trophy, and Conference levels. The top division, often called 'Six Nations B', features intense rivalries and high-level play, while lower divisions offer opportunities for developing rugby nations. Promotion and relegation add drama to every match. Fans gather in stadiums from Tbilisi to Lisbon, waving flags and singing anthems, while local communities host visiting teams and supporters. The tournament is not just about the games; it is a celebration of rugby’s spirit, with camaraderie, sportsmanship, and national pride on display.

Joining in

Travellers can experience the Championships in cities across Europe, with matches hosted in countries like Georgia, Romania, Portugal, Spain, and Germany. Expect lively atmospheres, passionate fans, and a warm welcome from local rugby communities. Tickets are generally accessible, and matches often take place in national stadiums or historic grounds. Whether you’re a rugby enthusiast or a newcomer, attending a game offers a unique window into European sport and culture.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Rugby Europe International Championships, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Rugby Europe International Championships on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Official websiteOfficial site
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources listed above, and checked automatically before publishing. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.