Six Nations 2026 Predictions: Winner, Top Try-Scorer, and Rising Stars
The Six Nations Championship returns for its annual spring spectacle, promising the usual blend of thrilling rugby and intense competition. This year's campaign is slightly condensed, with the removal of a rest weekend likely to increase pressure on squads, potentially influencing the tournament's outcome. Defending champions France aim to retain their title, but face stiff challenges from England, on an 11-match winning streak, and Ireland, who meet Les Bleus in the opening match in Paris. Scotland seek redemption after a disappointing autumn, Italy hope to overcome injuries to continue their progress, and Wales look to move past off-field issues under new coach Steve Tandy.
Winner Predictions
Harry Latham-Coyle, Rugby Correspondent: England are poised for a title tilt after years out of contention. With an 11-match winning run concluding 2025, they possess all the tools for success. However, tough away fixtures in Paris and Edinburgh, plus a home game against Ireland, present significant hurdles. Despite this, this could be their year to reclaim the championship.
Luke Baker, Sport Live Editor: France hold a crucial advantage with home games in their two toughest matches, bookending the tournament. The electric atmosphere at the Stade de France could propel them to victory, especially if a grand slam is on the line in round five. Historical trends favour Six Nations teams pursuing a grand slam at home, and France often win post-Lions tour editions, making them strong favourites.
Wooden Spoon Contenders
Harry Latham-Coyle: Italy face a challenging campaign due to injury setbacks, including the loss of young talents like Edoardo Todaro and Ange Capuozzo. While Italy have shown promising development, Wales might muster a big performance in Cardiff, potentially leaving Italy struggling at the bottom.
Luke Baker: Wales are in a rebuilding phase under Steve Tandy, with slight flashes of promise in autumn matches. However, this Six Nations may come too soon for significant progress. Italy, buoyed by recent victories, could edge out Wales in their head-to-head clash, consigning Wales to the wooden spoon.
Player of the Tournament
Harry Latham-Coyle: If England secure their first Six Nations title since 2020, Ben Earl could emerge as a standout candidate. Combining impressive statistics with impactful performances, he has the potential to challenge for the award, despite historical bias against English players in this category.
Luke Baker: Antoine Dupont, despite limited recent appearances for France, remains the world's best player. Returning from injury, he is likely to make an immediate impact, particularly in the opener against Ireland. With previous wins in 2022 and 2023, he is a strong contender for a third player of the tournament honour.
Breakthrough Star
Harry Latham-Coyle: Edwin Edogbo of Ireland is a player to watch. Although not in the matchday squad for the opener, the 23-year-old Munster lock's size and skill make him a promising prospect for future campaigns, as Ireland seek to regenerate their team.
Luke Baker: Theo Attissogbe of France has already made a mark with try-scoring performances against Wales and Italy last year. At just 21, his defensive prowess and tackle-breaking ability could see him cement a place in what might be the world's best back three, potentially outshining established stars.
Top Try-Scorer
Harry Latham-Coyle: Louis Bielle-Biarrey is the clear favourite, with an impressive record of 27 tries in 27 matches for club and country since the 2025 Six Nations. His consistency and finishing ability make him a likely leader in this category.
Luke Baker: While Bielle-Biarrey is a strong candidate, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso of England offers an exciting alternative. Despite a stop-start international career due to injuries, the Exeter winger's electric pace and potential for breakthrough performances could see him top the try-scoring charts, drawing comparisons to rugby legend Jason Robinson.
Most Anticipated Aspects
Harry Latham-Coyle: The removal of the first fallow week introduces a new dynamic to the tournament structure. This change will test squad management and could lend greater momentum to the campaign, making it a fascinating element to observe throughout the competition.
Luke Baker: With the 2027 World Cup approaching, this Six Nations is crucial for several coaches. Performance pressures could lead to coaching changes by summer, particularly for teams like Scotland, France, or Ireland if results falter. The strategic decisions and outcomes in this tournament will set the stage for future international rugby developments.
