A record 1.1 million television viewers in Wales watched caretaker head coach Rob Howley’s team lift the RBS 6 Nations title.
The record 30-3 defeat of England at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday was the third most watched TV event since 2000 on BBC Wales – behind the opening and closing ceremonies of last year’s Olympics.
The Welsh Rugby Union has welcomed the BBC Wales figure as evidence that rugby union remains at the “heart and soul” of the nation.
Roger Lewis, chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union, said: “On Saturday Wales was one.
“A nation came together in a passionate display of unity. Together we celebrated possibly Wales’ finest ever rugby occasion.
“The BBC captured it all brilliantly as only they can. The most amazing of scenes of jubilation and celebration were beamed around the world.
“At the centre of it all was one of the most extraordinary rugby matches played in our great stadium. If anyone ever doubted the absolutely unique place rugby occupies in the hearts and souls of the people of Wales, just go to the BBC iPlayer now.”
Geoff Williams, head of sport at BBC Wales said: “These extraordinary figures reflect the public’s passion and pride for Welsh rugby and is an indication of the appreciation of the BBC’s expert coverage. The occasion, especially the singing of the anthems, transcended mere sports coverage – it was a national event.
“In the wake of Saturday’s result, it is perhaps all too easy to forget that our coverage of the campaign is such a central part of what makes the tournament so special for so many in Wales. It was the concluding chapter of two months of comprehensive coverage across all our services.”
The number of people who watched in Wales means more than a third of the 2.9 million population were watching the rugby action.
Across the UK on the BBC a peak of close to 9.5 million people were watching the match which decided the outcome of the competition with Wales chasing the Championship and England hoping to secure the Grand Slam.