Featured image credit: Dominic Nelson/CC BY-SA 4.0/Edited for size
The Welsh Rugby Union has announced that the roof at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium will be closed for all of Wales’ international fixtures over the next two years.
The change in protocol has been agreed with Six Nations Rugby and the roof will be closed as a default position. Previously, the WRU had discussed the matter of closing the roof with the visiting team, but it is hoped the new protocol will provide Wales with a greater home advantage.
The announcement has been made ahead of Wales’ Six Nations matches against Ireland on February 22 and England on March 15. Both matches have already sold out, with crowds of 74,000 expected.
The WRU said that being able to close Principality Stadium’s roof will guarantee conditions, maintain consistency for fans and players, and improve the fan experience.
The Principality Stadium roof was also closed for all three of Wales’ autumn internationals last year. This covered matches against Fiji, Australia and South Africa.
During last year’s Six Nations, Scotland had been keen for the roof to remain open for its match against Wales at Principality Stadium. However, a late decision was made to close the roof as rain was forecast throughout the day.
Wales coach Warren Gatland has long been in favour of the roof remaining closed for high-profile matches due to the “unbelievable atmosphere” it creates.
Following today’s announcement, Principality Stadium manager Mark Williams said: “There’s no better atmosphere than a packed-out Principality Stadium roaring Wales along.
“In the past we’ve always come to a mutual agreement with the visiting team on whether the roof remains open or shut but in this historic move we’re maximising one of our greatest assets and the roof will be closed for the next two years of international Welsh rugby fixtures.
“When the roof is shut, the noise is intimidating. It’s fantastic for both the fans and players. We’re in for two huge, sold-out fixtures in Cardiff across this iconic Championship.”
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