Hollie Davidson will not be involved in officiating this year’s Women’s Six Nations, with the Scottish referee instead continuing her rapid rise in the men’s professional game.
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Davidson, widely regarded as one of the breakout stars of international refereeing, is scheduled to take charge of a Challenge Cup fixture this weekend. Her absence from the Women’s Six Nations may surprise some fans, given her strong performances in previous editions of the tournament, but it reflects the growing demand for her services at the highest level of the sport.
The 2026 Women’s Six Nations gets underway this weekend with an exciting opening round of fixtures: France v Italy, England v Ireland, and Wales v Scotland. The championship runs over five rounds and concludes in mid-May, with several blockbuster clashes expected to shape the title race.
Adding further significance to her recent appointments, Davidson will make history next Saturday when she referees a Top 14 encounter between ASM Clermont Auvergne and Lyon OU. The milestone marks another step forward for female officials in the men’s game and underlines the trust placed in her by rugby’s governing bodies.
Known for her calm authority, excellent communication, and consistent decision-making, Davidson has earned widespread respect from players and coaches alike.
While her absence will be felt in the Women’s Six Nations, her continued progression on the global stage signals a broader shift within rugby officiating—one where merit and performance are increasingly the defining factors.
As Davidson prepares to break new ground in France, her journey continues to inspire the next generation of referees and highlights the evolving landscape of the modern game.
EDITORS PICKS:
Hollie Davidson facts:
1. She Made Six Nations History
In 2024, Davidson became the first woman to referee a men’s Six Nations match — one of rugby union’s most prestigious tournaments, featuring England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. It was a watershed moment not just for her career, but for the sport itself.
2. She Didn’t Start Out as a Referee
Davidson originally played rugby growing up in Scotland and at university level. Like many elite officials, she transitioned into refereeing after her playing career — discovering a talent for leadership and game management.
3. She Worked in Banking Before Rugby
Before becoming a full-time referee, Davidson worked in banking after studying economic history at the University of Edinburgh. She previously held a role with J.P. Morgan before committing fully to officiating.
4. She Became Scotland’s First Full-Time Female Pro Referee
In 2017, she made history by becoming Scotland’s first full-time professional female referee — a major milestone in Scottish Rugby’s development pathway.
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