The Six Nations championship is to be condensed to a seven-week tournament from 2003. The competition currently runs over 10 weeks.
The decision was made by the Six Nations committee in Paris today, despite objections from the Welsh Rugby Union.
"From the 2003 season onwards, the tournament will take place in the seven weeks concluding with the last weekend in March," said a statement released by the Six Nations' Committee.
Representatives from Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, France and Italy attended the meeting.
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In 2005 and 2008 appropriate adjustments will be made to avoid a clash with the Easter weekend in March.
