The Six Nations Championship is poised for a potential power shift as England emerges as a formidable challenger to the longstanding French-Irish supremacy. Under coach Steve Borthwick, England rides an impressive 11-game winning streak highlighted by their decisive 33-19 victory over New Zealand in November, which precipitated the departure of All Blacks coach Scott Robertson. This resurgent squad, featuring emerging talents like Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Henry Pollock, faces its ultimate test in a climactic final-round showdown against defending champion France in Paris.
France enters as tournament favorite despite autumn campaign concerns. The team benefits from an ideal schedule with home advantages against both Ireland and England, coupled with the return of inspirational captain Antoine Dupont from ACL injury. Coach Fabien Galthié has embraced a transitional phase toward the 2027 World Cup, surprisingly dropping established stars including record try-scorer Damian Penaud in favor of promising newcomers like Théo Attissogbe and Lenni Nouchi.
Ireland confronts significant challenges including a humiliated front row against South Africa, lineout inconsistencies, and multiple injuries to key players. The team additionally faces disciplinary concerns after Bundee Aki’s six-week suspension for referee abuse, highlighting what former official Owen Doyle describes as a ‘growing and unacceptable culture’ of misconduct toward match officials.
Scotland battles persistent reputation issues despite moments of brilliance, with notorious collapses stemming from weak benches and mental fragility. Coach Gregor Townsend received a contract extension through 2027 despite growing clamor for change. Italy demonstrates renewed optimism under Gonzalo Quesada but faces injury setbacks, while Wales struggles with ongoing performance issues and concerningly low ticket sales despite ending historic losing streaks in 2025.