The 2026 Six Nations Championship is almost upon us, and the rugby world is buzzing with anticipation. But here's the burning question: who will lift the trophy this year? With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, this tournament promises to be one for the ages. Let’s dive into what our writers are most excited about and their bold predictions for the championship.
Robert Kitson kicks things off by highlighting the potential for a thrilling tournament—if the rain holds off. Players like Matthieu Jalibert, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Henry Arundell, and Manny Feyi-Waboso could light up the field with their skill and speed. But here’s where it gets controversial: Kitson predicts France will take the title, citing their three home games, the return of the world’s best player, and a deep squad of promising youngsters. He also points out that England hasn’t won the title in the season after a British & Irish Lions tour since 1963—a stat that’s sure to spark debate. His predicted finishing order? France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Wales. And don’t forget to watch out for Hollie Davidson, who will make history as the first female referee to officiate a men’s Six Nations game. Should this have happened sooner? Let us know in the comments.
Ugo Monye, on the other hand, is all about the away trips and the unique atmosphere of the Six Nations. He’s backing England to win, citing their strength in depth and consistency. But is England’s squad really as unstoppable as he claims? Monye also highlights the return of Antoine Dupont, who he calls the ‘north star’ for scrum-halves. His top try scorer? Louis Bielle-Biarrey, whose partnership with Jalibert could be unstoppable. When it’s all over, Monye believes we’ll all agree: the Six Nations is the greatest rugby tournament in the world.
Gerard Meagher is looking forward to the rare Thursday night kickoff, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tournament. He also predicts a French victory, but with a twist: they’ll need another Grand Slam to do it. Is this too ambitious, or is France truly that dominant? Meagher’s ‘watch out for’ moment? The potential clash between France and England if both teams win their first four matches. And for top try scorer, he’s once again picking Bielle-Biarrey, whose speed is unmatched in elite rugby.
Andy Bull has his eyes on the final weekend, with three crucial matches that could shape the tournament’s outcome. He’s backing England, believing they’re a step ahead of Ireland and France. But is England’s squad really as cohesive as he thinks? Bull also highlights Jamie Dobie as a player to watch, with his versatility and pace causing problems for opponents. And yes, his top try scorer is Bielle-Biarrey, whose try-scoring record speaks for itself.
Michael Aylwin is relieved that this year’s tournament isn’t overshadowed by a Lions tour or World Cup. He’s also backing England, despite their short-term issues at prop. But are these issues being overlooked? Aylwin’s ‘watch out for’ moment? The potential rise of Scotland and Italy, who he believes could surprise everyone. His top try scorer is Tommy Freeman, whose all-round ability makes him a standout player.
Luke McLaughlin can’t wait for the final day, with England’s trip to Paris shaping up to be a historic decider. He’s cautiously backing France, but acknowledges England’s momentum under Steve Borthwick. Who will come out on top in this clash of titans? McLaughlin also highlights Henry Pollock and Henry Slade as players to watch. And yes, his top try scorer is Bielle-Biarrey, whose finishing ability is second to none.
Finally, Brendan Fanning is intrigued by how England will handle the weight of expectations, while Wales fights to stay competitive. He’s predicting a French victory, citing their post-Lions tour success. But is this a reliable pattern, or just a coincidence? Fanning also highlights the potential reduction in player-referee communications, following Bundee Aki’s recent suspension. And of course, his top try scorer is Bielle-Biarrey, affectionately known as ‘Billy Barry’ in Dublin.
When it’s all over, will we agree that compressing the tournament into six weeks was too much? Or will we simply marvel at the rugby on display? What’s your take? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
