Why are Wales closing the roof at the Principality Stadium?

To close the roof or not close the roof? That has been the question which has reared its head at every Six Nations Championship since Wales moved to the Principality Stadium back in 1999.

The Principality Stadium, formerly known as the Millennium Stadium, has one unique yet controversial feature - the roof.

Back in March 2019, Wales head coach Warren Gatland went on record saying: "It's our stadium and we should be able to do what we want with it."

Now, six years later, it seems that Gatland and Wales may have got their wish.

The WRU have announced that for the next two years, including this year's Six Nations Championship, Wales will be allowed to have the roof closed for all of their games without the previously necessary permission from their opposition.

What are the benefits to closing the roof at the Principality Stadium for Wales Rugby games?

A key argument in favour of closing the roof is for the fans.

Picture this: 74,500 passionate Welsh men and women singing "Land of my Fathers" before Wales play their ultimate enemy, England. Now imagine the sound has nowhere to escape, there would rarely be a better sight in sport.

Another argument in favour is a logistical one. With the roof on, Wales are able to guarantee that no matter the conditions, the game will go ahead. This is a rarity in winter sports such as Rugby Union.

Does closing the roof at the Principality Stadium benefit Wales?

There are certainly benefits for the Wales side to having the roof closed that would impact the players on the field.

The enhanced atmosphere can turn an already raucous Principality Stadium into an absolute cauldron, making a daunting match for visiting players that much harder.

The other benefit is consistency. Similar to that of a 4G plastic pitch, a closed roof can add a new element to "home advantage" with the Red Dragons being able to prepare for matches in conditions that are identical every week.

This not only impacts the kickers of the ball, with windspeed impacting a goalkicker's entire routine, but also the ability to play with the ball in hand rather than kicking ahead.

Wales are able to adopt a playing style which is specifically moulded to playing in the almost perfectly still conditions created by the Principality roof.

Do both teams have to agree for the roof to be closed for Rugby games?

In previous years, both teams would have needed to agree in order for it to be closed for the match.

However, the WRU and Six Nations have come to an agreement to allow the roof to be shut for all matches in the next two years.

Which Six Nation fixtures will Wales play at the Principality Stadium?

Wales have two home fixtures in the 2025 Six Nations:

• Wales v Ireland - Saturday 22nd February at 14:15 GMT
• Wales v England - Saturday 15th March at 16:45 GMT

The WRU have announced that both fixtures have been sold out.

Chief Executive Abi Tierney said: "Selling out both of our home fixtures is an achievement reflective of the excitement building ahead of another thrilling Guinness Six Nations campaign, and our retractable roof enables us to create an amazing atmosphere."