The Six Nations Championship returns in 2026 with France aiming to defend their crown in what promises to be another thrilling edition of rugby union's premier northern hemisphere competition. Les Bleus narrowly edged out England and Ireland to claim last year's title and will be strengthened by the return of talismanic scrum-half Antoine Dupont, who is back to full fitness as they target consecutive championships.
Tournament Structure and Competitive Landscape
This year's tournament features a slightly condensed schedule following the removal of one rest weekend, potentially intensifying the competition across the five rounds of fixtures. The format change may further highlight the tournament's renowned competitiveness, with every match traditionally delivering high drama and unpredictable outcomes.
Steve Borthwick's England and Andy Farrell's Ireland will both face challenging away trips to Paris during the campaign, adding significant intrigue to the title race. Meanwhile, several compelling subplots emerge across the competing nations.
Key Questions Heading Into the Tournament
Can Scotland finally overcome their recent hurdles despite some concerning performances during the autumn internationals? Will Italy build on their progress and secure another statement victory or two against established opposition? And what prospects await Wales amid ongoing questions about both on-field performance and off-field stability within their setup?
Complete Six Nations 2026 Fixture Schedule
All times are listed in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Round One
- Thursday 5 February: France vs Ireland (8.10pm, Stade de France, Paris)
- Saturday 7 February: Italy vs Scotland (2.10pm, Stadio Olimpico, Rome)
- Saturday 7 February: England vs Wales (4.40pm, Twickenham Stadium, London)
Round Two
- Saturday 14 February: Ireland vs Italy (2.10pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin)
- Saturday 14 February: Scotland vs England (4.40pm, Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh)
- Sunday 15 February: Wales vs France (3.10pm, Principality Stadium, Cardiff)
Round Three
- Saturday 21 February: England vs Ireland (2.10pm, Twickenham Stadium, London)
- Saturday 21 February: Wales vs Scotland (4.40pm, Principality Stadium, Cardiff)
- Sunday 22 February: France vs Italy (3.10pm, Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Lille)
Round Four
- Friday 6 March: Ireland vs Wales (8.10pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin)
- Saturday 7 March: Scotland vs France (2.10pm, Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh)
- Saturday 7 March: Italy vs England (4.40pm, Stadio Olimpico, Rome)
Round Five
- Saturday 14 March: Ireland vs Scotland (2.10pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin)
- Saturday 14 March: Wales vs Italy (4.40pm, Principality Stadium, Cardiff)
- Saturday 14 March: France vs England (8.10pm, Stade de France, Paris)
Broadcast Information for UK Viewers
Rugby fans across the United Kingdom will enjoy comprehensive coverage of every match throughout the tournament. The BBC and ITV have entered the first year of their new joint broadcasting agreement for Six Nations television rights, ensuring extensive free-to-air coverage.
All matches will be broadcast live across BBC and ITV channels, with live streaming available through the BBC iPlayer and ITVX digital platforms. Additionally, selected games will be available on Premier Sports, providing viewers with multiple options to follow the action across the championship's duration.
