The Six Nations is set to be plunged into doubt with the French government ready to impose an immediate ban on cross-border elite sport.
The impending decision will also see the final two rounds of the Champions Cup pool stage postponed later today, according to the Telegraph.
Only yesterday, the Six Nations insisted plans for the tournament were proceeding as normal amid reports the tournament could be played in just one country due to the coronavirus pandemic. This latest development is a new twist in a situation that now causes major headaches for all concerned.
A travel ban would have serious implications for the Six Nations, which is set to start on Feb 6. Were it still in place by then, it would prevent France from taking part.
With the sport already facing severe financial blows from the impact of no crowds during the pandemic, further disruption would represent a major setback.
A senior Six Nations source told the Telegraph on Friday: “We are following every governmental decision closely and will address accordingly. Border control and restrictions are a key area of attention."
It is now expected that emergency talks will take place to explore how the remainder of the season can be completed in the face of the rising infection rates.
The European club competitions are not yet expected to be fully cancelled according to the report, with further discussions to take place around how it can be completed.
The Scarlets are scheduled to play in Toulon next Friday, but it now appears that game won't happen if and when the French border decision is officially confirmed.
EPRC officials had made presentations to the French government and moved to reassure the Top 14 clubs by tightening up safety and testing protocols this week ahead of the competition resumption next week, after six matches were called off in the last round due to issues related to coronavirus - including the decision by Toulon and Stade Francais to pull out of matches with Scarlets and Cardiff Blues at short notice.
