Former England and British & Irish Lions wing Ugo Monye insists the Six Nations remains rugby’s premier annual competition.
This is despite the 2025 Rugby Championship producing one of its most dramatic editions in years.
The Springboks’ record 43-10 victory over the All Blacks in Wellington and the Wallabies’ shock opening-round win at Ellis Park have left all four teams still in contention with two rounds remaining.
Argentina also registered their first home win over the All Blacks, prompting debate that this year’s Championship may be the best yet.
But Monye believes the northern hemisphere tournament retains the edge.
“I’ve heard people say this is the best Rugby Championship ever. But do I think it’s now better than the Six Nations? I don’t think it is,” he said.
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Monye argued that, despite its intensity, the Rugby Championship remains more predictable than its European counterpart.
“To my mind we’ve only seen one unpredictable result, Australia beating South Africa in Johannesburg. Yes, Argentina beat New Zealand, but they have done that before. Everything else has kind of gone to script.”
He added that the Six Nations’ greater depth gives it more weight.
“The Rugby Championship is really competitive, but it’s easier with four nations. The Six Nations has pedigree, not just on the pitch but through the stories, the fans and the culture that comes with it.”
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Yet when asked to name the best winger in the world, Monye turned to the south.
“Cheslin Kolbe, hands down,” he said, praising the Springbok’s influential performances in this year’s competition.
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
