This year’s Six Nations has got off to a strong start with some remarkable games in the opening two weeks of the tournament.

The second weekend opened with Wales losing their 14th Test in a row, a 22-15 defeat to Italy. This clash was followed by an absolute thriller between England and Antoine Dupont’s France at Twickenham, with the home team clinching a dramatic 26-25 victory.

The final game of the week saw Ireland convincingly defeat Scotland 32-18 to remain the only unbeaten team in the tournament so far. Just as it looked like things were heating up in the Six Nations, the teams will go on a one-week break, and here’s why.

Why are there no Six Nations games this weekend?

The Six Nations in its present-day format works in a 2-1-2 configuration. This means that after two weeks of championship action, there is a one week break, followed by a matchweek, and another break before the final two rounds of action.

This rest week is given as a medium to help teams recover, which is especially useful for players who are dealing with injuries or fatigue. Additionally, the fallow week also allows those players who need match fitness to compete in league games during the break.

However, due to changes in the international rugby calendar from 2026 onwards, there will only be one rest week throughout the Six Nations from the next edition. This means that a week of rest will be cut to accommodate these new changes. However, as of now, a decision has not been made on which week will be cut under this amendment.

When will 2025 Six Nations return to action?

After a week of rest for all the countries and their players, the 2025 Six Nations will be back in action from the weekend after this break. Games have been scheduled to resume on February 22 and February 23.

The third round of the 2025 Six Nations will begin with table-toppers Ireland taking on an out-of-form Wales on February 22. It will be followed by England looking to build on their victory over the French when they host Scotland.

The next day will see France travel to Italy, hoping to move on from their disappointing loss to the Red Roses. Afterwards, the 2025 Six Nations will again go on a week’s break before returning for the final two decisive rounds from March 8 onwards.