Scotland and Glasgow Warriors No 8 Jack Dempsey believes the Six Nations is tougher to win than the Rugby World Cup – and he’s using the Springboks’ recent dominance to back up his claim.

Dempsey argues that while South Africa have lifted the last two World Cups despite losing pool matches, such slip-ups simply aren’t possible in the northern hemisphere’s flagship tournament.

“You can’t afford to lose a game in the Six Nations if you want to win it,” the Australian-born loose forward told Scotland Rugby News.

“The pressure is massive because you’re playing away from home, not at neutral venues like the World Cup.”

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Dempsey, who qualified for Scotland through family heritage, says the tournament’s condensed five-match format and unforgiving travel make it more demanding than the global showpiece.

“There’s 80 minutes, five times. That’s what it is,” he said.

“You just have to play five games at your best five times. That’s it.”

While South Africa’s ability to peak for World Cups has become the envy of world rugby, Dempsey insists consistency is the hallmark of true champions — citing Ireland as the current gold standard.

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“Ireland never play below a seven out of ten, that’s why they’re so hard to beat,” he said.

“France are a bit like Scotland – capable of big highs, but they fluctuate. It’s about doing it every week.”

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