Six Nations Logo Unveiling Sparks Backlash from Fans

Six Nations rugby’s unveiling of a new logo has sparked significant backlash from fans. The rebranding, featuring an orange ball symbol and the letters “M6N,” aims to capture the “electrifying action” of the tournament and symbolize the “vital spark of connection” among fans. Organizers described the modern logo as a representation of the optimism that supporters feel at the start of the Six Nations after the winter months. However, the new design has faced widespread criticism on social media, with many fans calling it “shocking” and “ugly.”

Some compared the logo to the branding of a Mars bar, the opening credits of the 1996 film Space Jam and a primary school project. Despite this, a few supporters appreciated the logo’s similarity to the women’s Six Nations branding which now runs separately from the men’s event. Six Nations organizers have defended the rebrand, explaining that it reflects the evolution of the Championship and the modern game of rugby.

They stated that the logo was designed to express the exciting experiences that fans eagerly anticipate each year, drawing on feedback from across the rugby community. Design expert Rob Alderson suggested that the logo might age better than expected, pointing to examples like the London 2012 Olympics logo which initially faced criticism but later gained acceptance. Alderson speculated that if the Six Nations aims to appeal to new audiences, a fresh, unconventional design could prove a smart move.

He emphasized that people’s opinions may change once they see the logo in different contexts such as on kits and in stadiums. The new logo will debut during next year’s Six Nations tournament which kicks off on January 31 with France facing Wales in Paris.