James Doleman has been appointed as the referee for the highly anticipated Wales vs France clash in the 2026 Six Nations championship. This round two fixture will see the tournament favourites, France, travel to Cardiff for a pivotal match under Doleman's supervision.
James Doleman's Refereeing Career
Hailing from Tauranga in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, Doleman began his officiating journey while studying in Dunedin. His international background includes significant time refereeing in Hong Kong, where his parents reside, adding a unique global perspective to his experience.
Doleman's rise through the ranks has been marked by key milestones. He officiated the final of the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship, a prestigious assignment that showcased his early potential. In 2020, he transitioned to professional refereeing, overseeing multiple Super Rugby fixtures that year.
International and Six Nations Experience
Doleman made his international debut in 2021, quickly establishing himself on the global stage. His Six Nations journey began three years ago at Twickenham, where he refereed England's victory over Italy, demonstrating his capability in high-pressure environments.
During the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, Doleman served as an assistant referee, gaining invaluable experience at one of the sport's premier events. This background positions him well for the 2026 Six Nations, where he will make his tournament debut as a lead official.
Full Officiating Team for Wales vs France
Doleman will be supported by a seasoned team of officials for the Wales vs France match. The assistant referees are Christophe Ridley from England and Sam Grove-White of Scotland, both bringing extensive experience to the sidelines.
The Television Match Official (TMO) role will be handled by Richard Kelly, another New Zealander and compatriot of Doleman. For foul play reviews, Mike Adamson from Scotland has been appointed as the Foul Play Review Officer, operating from the bunker to ensure fair play.
Officiating Team Details
- Referee: James Doleman (New Zealand)
- Assistant Referees: Christophe Ridley (England) & Sam Grove-White (Scotland)
- Television Match Official: Richard Kelly (New Zealand)
- Foul Play Review Officer: Mike Adamson (Scotland)
This match promises to be a critical encounter in the 2026 Six Nations, with Doleman and his team tasked with maintaining order and fairness on the field. Their collective expertise aims to ensure a smooth and competitive fixture between two of rugby's top nations.
