In its second year as the Official Hotel Partner of the Guinness Men’s and Women’s Six Nations, IHG Hotels & Resorts kicked off the excitement on Saturday ahead of the Round 3 matches with not one but three memorable pre-game experiences. Ahead of the England v. Scotland clash in Twickenham, rugby fans and guests staying at the nearby Holiday Inn London - Brentford Lock were treated to a surprise performance of the English and Scottish national anthems by singer, songwriter, and actress Pixie Lott, and Scottish singer and songwriter Tom Walker, to get fans pumped ahead of the match.

Elsewhere in the UK, ahead of the game in Cardiff, choirs from Wales and Ireland pitched up at voco St David’s hotel to galvanise support for their home nations. Both battling it out in the hotel lobby, the choirs performed renditions of their nation’s anthems as guests headed to the game.

The surprise performances follow research commissioned by IHG Hotels & Resorts, revealing the importance of pre-match rituals like the national anthem for fans and athletes alike. Despite their conflicting allegiances, rugby fans from each nation were united in the belief that national anthems are an iconic part of international rugby, with three quarters (75%) going so far as to say they are the most important pre-match ritual.

Karin Sheppard, SVP & Managing Director, Europe, at IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “Delighting every guest that walks through our doors is at the heart of what we do as a global hospitality company; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression. What better way to get guests in the mood for the excitement of watching their team in action than by hearing their national anthem being performed in our hotel lobbies before they head to the games.”

“We’re incredibly proud to enter our second year as the Official Hotel Partner of Guinness Men’s and Women’s Six Nations Rugby, and to deliver truly memorable moments, both on and off the pitch, for our guests, IHG One Rewards members and rugby fans once again.”

Later that day, IHG Hotels & Resorts hosted a star-studded bash at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. Celebrity guests included rugby star Ilona Maher, renowned television presenter and comedian Joel Dommett, popular actress and singer Billie Piper, actress and television personality Emily Atack, YouTuber and entrepreneur Jim Chapman and former Women’s rugby union player Jodie Ounsley.

Guests were treated to a memorable and exclusive game day experience at the stadium in a private suite. The intimate setting created the perfect atmosphere for socialising and building excitement before the main event.

The partnership between IHG Hotels & Resorts and Six Nations Rugby, puts fans and IHG One Rewards members at the heart of the action, by offering once-in-a-lifetime fan experiences throughout the Men’s and Women’s Championships. These experiences include behind the scenes stadium tours, pitch side experiences, match tickets and hotel packages, and a chance to watch team’s train. Loyalty members can turn their rewards into VIP experiences with all IHG’s sports partners throughout the year by bidding to redeem them on IHG One Rewards Access.