Watson supports the idea, seeing it as a boon for the sport's expansion. "When we're talking about growing the game of rugby, sometimes you've got to do things for the greater good," he said.
"My instinctive reaction is, if I was playing and it was a home game for England, absolutely not. But as a spectator, as a fan of the sport, I think absolutely."
Watson emphasizes the strategic approach needed for such a venture. "As a now ex-player I think rugby needs to grow its audience, though the sport would need to be really clever and innovative around how it does that," he noted.
"I don’t think just playing a game in New York is going to do the things it needs to do to benefit the sport. You have to be smart around how you activate the game, how you get key people involved with real influence in America to be able to promote the sport. Essentially, what I’m trying to say is, yes, I think a Six Nations game in America would be good for the game of rugby."
World Rugby's ambition aligns with the broader trend of sports globalizing their reach, exemplified by Rugby League and Aussie Rules exploring American venues for major matches. This move also aligns with the NFL's successful international showcases, which Watson acknowledges have a different global footprint compared to rugby.
World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin recently highlighted the financial viability of staging such matches in the US, using the example of Ireland versus Italy, which could potentially engage expatriate communities in cities like New York or Chicago.
The proposal is underpinned by the sport's strong ties to its fanbase, with recent sold-out events demonstrating that American appetite for rugby is growing. This follows on from the historical precedent set when Wales played their home Six Nations matches at Wembley while the Millennium Stadium was under construction.
Yet, the move is not without its detractors. The Irish Rugby Football Union recently expressed reservations, emphasizing the importance of home games for fans in Ireland and Italy. "We believe the Six Nations holds a special place for supporters across all participating unions," an IRFU spokesperson stated, highlighting the competition's traditional appeal.
Meanwhile, Watson continues to advocate for the sport’s expansion in his capacity as an ambassador for tonight’s London City 7s, a sevens tournament that promises fast-paced rugby and a vibrant atmosphere, right in the heart of London.
As rugby looks to broaden its horizons and capture new markets, the debate around taking Six Nations matches to the US is set to continue. Watson's stance reflects a broader conversation within the sport about balancing tradition with the need for innovation and growth.
