As the Guinness Six Nations kicks off this weekend, Rugby World Cup legends Martin Johnson and Jason Robinson are teaming up with Greene King to inspire fans to reconnect with old friends over the love of rugby.
The initiative, dubbed ‘Fans Reunited’, invites rugby enthusiasts to watch a Six Nations match at any Greene King pub — from Flaming Grill and Hungry Horse to Belhaven pubs — and enjoy a free pint when they book in advance.
Brits Missing Out on Friendships
New research from Greene King and its brewery partners highlights that many of us struggle to maintain important relationships. Over half of Brits (58%) regret losing touch with people who once played a major role in their lives, with school friends topping the list of lost connections.
Interestingly, the study found that despite the rise of digital communication, adults aged 35–44 are more likely to meet friends in person (57%) than interact via group chats (50%). The top reasons for losing touch? Busy schedules (34%), awkwardness (30%), and drifting interests (25%).
Sport: The Ultimate Friendship Catalyst
Sport has long been a unifier in the UK. Nearly a third of people (30%) say friendships were key to sparking their love of sport, while 28% note that watching sports brings back fond memories of time spent together. Adults aged 35–44 are especially likely (39%) to feel that sporting events make reconnecting easier, as shared experiences on and off the field revive past bonds.
Greene King is urging fans to use the Guinness Six Nations as the perfect reason to reach out to old friends, with 31% of Brits agreeing that unifying sporting moments provide the ideal excuse to reconnect.
The Pub: Britain’s Top Reunion Spot
Where better to relive those memories than the local pub? Almost a third of Brits (31%) say they would meet friends at their local, rising to 36% among those aged 45–54. Greene King aims to turn these reunions into unforgettable rugby moments, blending the excitement of the game with the warm, sociable atmosphere only a pub can offer.
Zoe Bowley, Managing Director of Greene King Pubs, commented:
“Fans Reunited celebrates the unique role that sport, and the pub atmosphere, plays in bringing people together. By launching alongside the Guinness Six Nations and offering reunited fans a free pint on us, we want to spark moments where old friends reconnect over a pint. Just like the rugby legends joining us, we hope this encourages people to reach out to someone from their past — whether it’s an old coach, teammate, or school friend — and share the joy of the game together.”
Rugby Legends Backing the Campaign
Martin Johnson added:
“Rugby has a unique way of bringing people together. Friendships formed through sport are unbreakable, and the ones that endure last a lifetime — exactly what Greene King’s Fans Reunited campaign celebrates. Combined with the atmosphere of the pub, it takes the experience to the next level. It’s not just about the game; it’s about creating moments that reconnect old friends and strengthen the sense of community that makes rugby, and Fans Reunited, so special.”
How to Join Fans Reunited
To claim a free pint, simply visit Greene King Fans Reunited, book a spot for any Guinness Six Nations game on Saturday 7 February, and show your booking confirmation at the bar. The offer is valid at all Greene King sports pubs, including Flaming Grill, Hungry Horse, and Belhaven pubs.
Fans can also celebrate the tournament with Scrumdown, Greene King Brewery’s special-edition fresh golden ale. With 4.1% ABV, this crisp cask pint features tropical and citrus notes, crafted for match days and memorable sporting moments.
