This year's tournament, which celebrates the 25th anniversary of Italy's participation, was officially launched in the Eternal City at the iconic Colosseum.
Italy claimed their maiden victory in their very first game in the competition, a 34–20 win against reigning champions Scotland. Diego Dominguez scored 29 points in the process, which remains the record for the most points scored in a single match for the Italian national team.
Head coach Gonzalo Quesada, who is going into his second Six Nations as Italy's head coach, wants to move on from the strong results of 2024, which saw wins against Wales and Scotland, plus a dramatic draw against France in Lille after Paolo Garbisi's kick rattled the upright.
“With the last Six Nations, we have certainly earned the respect of our opponents once again," said the Argentine. "We are ready to compete by putting our identity on the pitch and playing our game. Every match must become an opportunity to do something unique.
"Representing Italy in one of the most important sporting tournaments in the world is an honour. I always watched the tournament, even when I wasn't involved. I always witnessed an incredible level of play, atmosphere and passion."
On what to expect of the 2025 Guinness Men's Six Nations, Quesada is clear:
Captain Michele Lamaro echoed his head coach: “We know that we will have to do something even more difficult, the expectations will be even higher." Outside of the Azzurri shirt, Lamaro and Benetton Rugby have just qualified for the last 16 of the European Champions Cup, beating double champions Stade Rochelais to seal the spot.
However, Lamaro issued a word of caution: "We must always remember that it is a different year, a different tournament and with teams at different [stages in their development]. We have improved, but the others are also progressing and therefore we must work day after day to continue the path we have started.
"We don't have to look at the past, even if it was fantastic. We must continue in this direction."
