Everton in line to host Fiji ‘home’ match for England’s Nations Championship clash

A unique opportunity is unfolding for England’s national rugby team. Discussions are underway to host their July 11th Nations Championship match against Fiji at the newly constructed Hill Dickinson Stadium, home of Everton Football Club. This would mark the first time England has played a home match outside of Twickenham Stadium since 2019.

A Shift in Venue and Revenue

Originally scheduled as an away fixture for England in South Africa, following a match against the Springboks, the Fiji Rugby Union requested a venue change. The aim is to maximize revenue from ticket sales. World Rugby, the Six Nations, and Sanzaar have agreed to the change, with the stipulation that the match not be held at Twickenham Stadium.

Did You Know? Everton’s new 53,000-capacity Bramley-Moore Dock stadium hosted a sold-out rugby league Ashes Test match in November.

Everton’s Emerging Role as a Multi-Sport Venue

Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock is currently the preferred location, though contract details are still being negotiated. Other potential venues, including Wembley, the Emirates Stadium, and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, are unavailable due to pre-existing commitments. Manchester United and Manchester City were not considered as options.

The Rugby Football Union has reportedly expressed private satisfaction with the prospect of taking the national team on the road. England previously played a World Cup warm-up match at Newcastle’s St James’ Park in 2019 and a pool game against Uruguay at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium in 2015.

Broader Implications for the Nations Championship

World Rugby’s approval is linked to the limited venue options available in Fiji and a broader goal of supporting the financial growth of smaller rugby nations. Venues for Fiji’s other Nations Championship home games against Wales and Scotland have yet to be determined.

Expert Insight: Shifting a high-profile international rugby match to a football stadium demonstrates a willingness to explore alternative revenue streams and broaden the sport’s reach beyond traditional venues. This could set a precedent for future matches, particularly for unions seeking to maximize financial returns.

Injury Concerns for England Ahead of the Six Nations

England’s preparations for the upcoming Six Nations have been impacted by injuries. Second-choice loosehead Fin Baxter will undergo foot surgery, ruling him out of the initial training camp in Girona. Will Stuart is already sidelined for the entire Six Nations due to a ruptured Achilles, and Asher Opoku-Fordjour is recovering from shoulder surgery.

Jack Kenningham has been added to the England training squad, while Ben Curry will continue his rehabilitation at Sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Nations Championship?

The upcoming match between England and Fiji is part of the inaugural Nations Championship, a new international rugby competition.

Why is the Fiji match being considered for a venue outside of Twickenham?

The Fiji Rugby Union requested a venue change to maximize revenue from ticket sales, and World Rugby approved the change with the condition that it not be held at Twickenham.

What other events are scheduled at Everton’s new stadium?

Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock is scheduled to host a rugby league Ashes Test match, the Super League Magic Weekend, and an international friendly between Scotland and Côte d’Ivoire.

As the details of this potential venue shift unfold, will this move to a new stadium create a different atmosphere for the England vs. Fiji match?

Everton in line to host Fiji ‘home’ match for England’s Nations Championship clash | Rugby union