The official trophy for the Six Nations to be “retired from ceremonial use” and replaced for next year after being damaged.

The trophy was damaged after round three of the tournament, when the vehicle carrying it was involved in an incident, according to a statement on the Six Nations website.

No passengers were injured but the trophy sustained “fire damage” in the aftermath and the manufacturers decided it cannot be restored to its former state.

An “identical exhibition trophy” will be used for the remainder of the championship, with a new one being commissioned in time for the 2027 Six Nations.

“Whilst in transit during round three of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations, an incident occurred involving the vehicle carrying the championship trophy,” the statement reads.

“Thankfully no passengers were injured, however the trophy sustained fire damage and following an assessment by the official trophy manufacturer, unfortunately it cannot be restored to its full presentation standard.

“In keeping with these presentation standards, respect for the significance of winning the Six Nations – one of sport’s most prestigious titles – and to preserve the integrity of the trophy and its heritage, it will be retired from ceremonial use.”

The silver trophy was created in 2015 “to reflect the tournament’s evolution to six teams” according to the Six Nations website, and stands at 75cm tall.

The Six Nations have confirmed that the new trophy will be commissioned in the same design as the damaged version, “with materials from the original being incorporated into the new Trophy, ensuring its history is respectfully transferred to the new creation.”

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