The 72,000-seater takes over from the iconic Stadio Flaminio, currently undergoing refurbishment, which has hosted the tournament for the 11 years since Italy’s admission.

And FIR President Giancarlo Dondi confirmed once the refurbishment had been completed, the federation planned to return to the Flaminio.

“After 11 years we say goodbye to the Stadio Flaminio, an arena which has offered us some unforgettable moments, starting with our debut against Scotland on 5 February 2000 which brought the oldest and most prestigious international rugby tournament on to the biggest stage of Italian rugby.” said Dondi.

“The choice of the Olympic stadium will be an exciting challenge for 2012 and in the next few years we hope to return to a Stadio Flaminio which fully corresponds with the requirements demanded by the Six Nations.”