World Rugby's chief executive, Alan Gilpin, has proposed that moving a Six Nations match to the United States could boost the sport's popularity in the region. He cited the example of an Ireland versus Italy game, suggesting that such a match could attract expatriate fans living in major U.S. cities like Boston and New York. Gilpin made these remarks in an interview with the Daily Telegraph and The Times, emphasizing the potential economic benefits of tapping into existing rugby fanbases in the U.S. However, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has clarified that there are "currently no plans or discussions" about moving any Six Nations matches to the United States. While Gilpin acknowledged that some may argue fans in Ireland and Italy should be able to watch their teams at home, he stressed that finding a balance between expanding the sport's reach and maintaining traditional appeal is an ongoing challenge. The IRFU has acknowledged the United States as a key growth market for rugby and has welcomed efforts to bring the sport to new audiences and generate revenue. However, the union emphasized that the Six Nations holds a unique significance for fans across all participating countries. The ability for supporters in Ireland and Italy to watch their national teams in person remains a central part of the competition's appeal. Ireland has had notable success in the U.S., with well-attended matches such as the 2016 victory over New Zealand in Chicago. A rematch in 2025 also proved to be commercially successful, highlighting the potential for international games to draw large audiences and contribute to the sport's global expansion.