The Italian national rugby team is engaged in the preparation of the World Cup, to be held in September-October in New Zealand (September 11 debut against Australia). But meanwhile, comes news that propels us already this winter, the 2012 Six Nations.

Confirmed the inagililità of the Flaminio stadium, which is affected by a series of works, however, Rome did not lose the tournament up at European level. Indeed, the capital raised through the provision of even the Olympic stadium. The dates? On 11 February in England and Italy-Italy-March 17 for Scotland.

Doors closed to the possibility of a temporary move: there was talk of Florence as an alternative more likely. The challenge will be to try to fill a facility by 65 thousand people (this capacity deemed appropriate to allow an adequate vision of a rugby match at the Olimpico, where Italrugby has already played, but never at the Six Nations) against 34 thousand of the "guaranteed" Flaminio. If the All Blacks New Zealand had attracted 80 thousand people at the San Siro in 2009, it is hoped that - at least for the match with England - will create the atmosphere of big event that could lead to a new, prestigious sold out.

The decision - said in a press release - was taken from Fir cones and in synergy with the capital Rome, who will participate in organizing the event. "After eleven years - said the President of the Fir, Giancarlo Dondi - let's see you at the Flaminio Stadium, a facility that has given us unforgettable moments. I am confident that, together, we will organize two extraordinary sporting events in a frame to 'height of the great European cathedrals of rugby. dell'OIimpico The choice can only be for the Italian rugby an exciting challenge for 2012 and we hope to find in the next few years Stadio Flaminio a fully responsive to the specific demands of the Six Nations. " Hope to share, because in the 2013 Six Nations home the challenges of the blue oval will go from two to three and would become increasingly difficult to maintain balance with the needs of the top football capitol.