Ryle Nugent, Group Head of Sport, RTÉ, said today: "The RBS 6 Nations is a major international sporting event, steeped in history and a key part of our public service broadcast offering.

"This is good news for Irish sports fans and means that all 15 matches will continue to be free-to-air for Irish audiences over the next five years.

"We have always enjoyed a successful relationship with John Feehan and the Six Nations Committee and are very pleased to be continuing our partnership up to and including the tournament in 2017."

John Feehan, Chief Executive, Six Nations Rugby, said: "We are delighted to have extended our contract with RTÉ for an additional four years. The work of the broadcasters in the promotion and development of the game is of tremendous importance and we would like to thank RTÉ for their efforts over the years.

"We look forward to working with them for a further four years."