Coverage will start on TV3 from 2018. RTÉ has lost the rights to broadcast the Six Nations Championship from 2018, with the hugely popular championship moving to TV3 in a new four-year deal that will last until 2021. A statement from TV3 reads: “TV3 along with the Six Nations Council today announced that it has secured the rights to the Six Nations Championship for a period of four years from 2018 until 2021, following the conclusion of a competitive tender process." “TV3 will broadcast every game live and free-to-air for viewers in the Republic of Ireland from 2018 onwards. TV3’s coverage will also include previews, magazine programmes and highlight shows.” RTÉ had previously lost the rights to the Rugby World Cup to TV3 and speaking about the news, John Feehan CEO of Six Nations Rugby stated: “We are delighted to be working with TV3 on developing the interest in the Championship and to ultimately grow this wonderful competition in Ireland." “TV3’s coverage of Rugby World Cup was very successful and we believe that they will inject new and exciting ideas in the broadcasting of the Six Nations Championship.” A statement from Head of Sport at RTÉ, Ryle Nugent read: "This is extremely disappointing news for RTÉ. We have a long and proud tradition of showcasing the 6 Nations and putting our heart and soul into our coverage.

"We want to assure the Irish public that every possible effort was made by RTÉ to retain these rights. As a public service broadcaster, RTÉ’s  ambition has always been, and continues to be, to deliver the best possible viewer experience and to share moments of major national importance.

"We put forward the best possible bid within our means, while always mindful of the significant responsibilities attached to spending public funds.

 "We have a phenomenal year ahead in 2016, with the GAA Championships, the Olympic Games and Euro 2016. We also look forward to delivering the 6 Nations Championship in 2016 and 2017.

 "Along with the range of Sports we have already secured and are delivering, we will look to other opportunities in Irish and international sports and remain committed to delivering a comprehensive portfolio of Sport to the Irish public."

The Six Nations gets underway in February 2016.