Six Nations 2026 Predictions: France or England to Triumph?
As the rugby world gears up for another thrilling edition of the Six Nations, anticipation is building for the 2026 championship. Set to kick off in early February, this year's tournament promises high-stakes drama, with France hosting the potentially decisive finale. Drawing from insights by Guardian sport writers, we explore who might lift the trophy, key players to watch, and why this could be one of the most unpredictable campaigns yet.
The Road to Glory: Tournament Format and Expectations
The Six Nations 2026 introduces a tweak to the schedule: just one fallow week instead of two, which experts believe will favor teams with deeper squads. England, fresh off a strong showing in recent years, enters as a favorite due to their bench strength and consistency. However, France's home advantage—three matches on their turf—combined with the return of talismanic captain Antoine Dupont, adds a layer of excitement.
Dupont, who ruptured his cruciate knee ligaments during the 2025 tournament, is back in action, ready to marshal France's troops. His presence is seen as a game-changer, with writers like Ugo Monye calling him the 'north star' for scrum-halves worldwide. For fans Down Under in Australia, where rugby union has a passionate following, this clash of titans will be must-watch viewing, especially with streaming options making it accessible across the Pacific.
Why France Could Dominate
Robert Kitson, a veteran rugby correspondent, tips France to win, citing their formidable forwards, promising youngsters, and Dupont's influence. 'Three home games, the world’s best player fit again, big forwards, highly promising youngsters,' Kitson writes. England hasn't won the title in the season following a British & Irish Lions tour since 1963—a historical quirk that might play into the French narrative.
Key to France's attack will be the partnership between fly-half Matthieu Jalibert and wing sensation Louis Bielle-Biarrey. With Damian Penaud sidelined, Bielle-Biarrey is tipped as the top try scorer. His speed and flair could light up dry-weather games, turning the championship into a spectacle of thrilling counters.
England's Case for Victory
On the flip side, Ugo Monye backs England for their 'greatest strength in depth and a great level of consistency.' It's a happy camp under Steve Borthwick, unburdened by defending the title. Stars like Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Henry Arundell, and the explosive Louis Rees-Zammit from Wales (though he's with England now? Wait, no—Rees-Zammit is Welsh, but the composite highlights cross-nation talents) will provide firepower.
Monye predicts: England first, followed by France, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Italy. The squad's ability to rotate players without dropping quality could prove decisive in a compressed schedule.
Dark Horses and Rising Stars
While France and England lead the predictions, don't count out Scotland or Ireland. Scotland's George Horne could orchestrate upsets at Murrayfield, a venue Monye raves about for its electric atmosphere. Ireland's Andrew Porter anchors a pack that's always in the mix, though their finishing order is projected lower due to transitional challenges.
Wales and Italy face tougher roads but boast talents like Louis Rees-Zammit and captain Michele Lamaro, respectively. Rees-Zammit's athleticism could spark Welsh revival, while Italy's grit under Lamaro might yield surprise results in Rome—a city Monye calls 'always glorious' for away trips.
Historic Milestone: Hollie Davidson's Refereeing Debut
A landmark moment awaits: Hollie Davidson will become the first woman to referee a men’s Six Nations game. Kitson notes it 'should have happened years ago,' praising her oversight in high-profile matches like Bath v Lyon. This step forward underscores rugby's push for inclusivity, inspiring the next generation of officials and players.
What to Watch For
Beyond the winner, the tournament's vibe is what captivates. Monye emphasizes the joy of away trips—the banter in pubs, the roar of crowds. With weather potentially drier, expect ball-in-hand rugby from flyers like Bielle-Biarrey and Feyi-Waboso. Kitson warns the championship might 'fly by' due to the tight schedule, but that's all the more reason to savor it.
Top try scorer consensus? Bielle-Biarrey, whose synergy with Jalibert could see him cross the line repeatedly. And when the final whistle blows, we'll all agree: the Six Nations remains the greatest rugby tournament, blending tradition with unbridled passion. No format changes needed—it's perfect as is.
Predicted Finishing Order
- 1. France (Kitson) / England (Monye)
- 2. England (Kitson) / France (Monye)
- 3. Scotland / Ireland
- 4. Ireland / Scotland
- 5. Italy / Wales
- 6. Wales / Italy
As kickoff approaches on February 7, 2026, rugby fans from Sydney to London are buzzing. Will Dupont's magic prevail, or will England's depth grind out a win? Tune in to find out—this Six Nations promises to be unforgettable.
