Over a third of Brits haven’t reconnected with someone important to them in more than five years.
Just in time for the start of the 2026 Guinness Six Nations, two of England’s best known former players, Martin Johnson and Jason Robinson, have teamed up with British pub giants Greene King to encourage fans to ‘reunite,’ by rekindling relationships, past and present, during of the tournament.
As part of the ‘Fans Reunited’ campaign, rugby supporters will get the chance to enjoy a pint on the house, at one of Greene King’s more than 2,000 venues across the UK, as they reconnect with pals during the tournament’s first matches this Saturday (7 February).
Summing up just how important the new initiative is, 2003 World Cup winner Martin Johnson said: “ 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.”
The stats don’t lie when it comes to Brits letting those close friendships slip-by over the years.
New research from the pub retailer and brewery has revealed that more than half of Brits (58%) regret losing touch with people who once played an important role in their lives, with school friends being the most commonly lost connection.
Johnson’s claim that sports like rugby play a vital role in maintaining close friendships can’t be doubted either. According to the study, nearly a third of people (30%) say their friendships played a key role in sparking their love of sport, while over a quarter (28%) say it brings back fond memories of time spent together.
Those in the age range of 35–44 are likely (39%) to say that sport makes reconnecting easier, as it revives shared memories and experiences.
Johnson added that the Greene King campaign is “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.”
Close to three in ten Brits (31%) say that unifying sporting moments provide the best reason to reach out to someone they’ve lost touch with.
So, with the Six Nations now just days away — and with the prospect of a free pint firmly on the agenda — what better time to reach out to a former close friend.
To claim a free pint, fans can make a booking here. Make sure to read all the terms and conditions of the campaign, at the same time.
England kick-off their tournament against rivals Wales at 16.40pm on Saturday.
#pub #chain #offering #free #pints #Nations #fans #ahead #tournament #JOE.co.uk
