Wales banish aged-old debate ahead of Six Nations as they ‘maximise’ one of their ‘greatest assets’
A view inside the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
Wales will play all their home internationals for the next two years under a closed roof at the Principality Stadium, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has announced.
Effective immediately these plans will come into place and the first match will be the upcoming home showdown against Ireland and then England in the 2025 Six Nations.
Reigning champions Ireland’s visit to the Principality Stadium on February 22 has today been officially confirmed as a sell-out in a timely announcement from the WRU.
Two sold-out games
Meanwhile the final-round clash with rivals England on March 15 sold-out before Christmas within hours of going on public sale. Both the games will welcome 74,000 fans.
The change to roof protocol which has been agreed with Six Nations will now become the default position, it’s been confirmed by the WRU. Being able to close the retractable roof is set to guarantee conditions, maintaining consistency for the supporters and players alike and also improving the fan experience in the iconic ground.
“Selling out both of our home fixtures is an achievement reflective of the excitement building ahead of another thrilling Guinness Six Nations campaign at the world renowned Principality Stadium,” said WRU Group CEO, Abi Tierney.
“Both senior men’s home fixtures have been in high demand and this is a fantastic achievement and a sign of the passion and belief that Welsh rugby fans have for this team.
“Principality Stadium is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world and our retractable roof, one of our most distinctive features, enables us to create an amazing atmosphere with the the match day experience set to come alive during the 2025 Six Nations.”
Principality Stadium Manager, Mark Williams, added: “There’s no better atmosphere than a packed-out Principality Stadium roaring Wales along.
Maximising an asset
“In the past we’ve always come to a mutual agreement with the visiting team on whether the roof remains open or shut but in this historic move we’re maximising one of our greatest assets and the roof will be closed for the next two years of international Welsh rugby fixtures.
“When the roof is shut, the noise is intimidating. It’s fantastic for both the fans and players. We’re in for two huge, sold-out fixtures in Cardiff across this iconic Championship.”
Wales kick off their Six Nations campaign on the road against France on Friday, January 31 before taking on Italy (away), Ireland (home), Scotland (away) and England (home).
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