FRANCE vs IRELAND 2026

On Thursday, 5 February 2026, Les Bleus will kick off the 2026 Six Nations Championship with a high-stakes match against Ireland, one of Europe's most formidable nations. This opening match, scheduled for Thursday evening at 9:10 p.m., will be played at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis and promises to be thrilling, tense and ambitious. The atmosphere is sure to be electric for this first major test of the year. This match is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the tournament. On one side are Les Bleus, still riding high on the energy of their 2023 victory and their magnificent World Cup run. On the other is Ireland, a team in fine form, 2025 Grand Slam champions, who arrive with the firm intention of retaining their title and their place at the top of the rugby world. Both teams are currently in exceptional form, and this first match could well be decisive for the rest of the tournament. A flying start for either side, with Grand Slam ambitions in their sights, will set the tone for the final days to come.

5 February will also be a red-letter day, as it represents another opportunity for France to prove its place at the top of world sport against one of its greatest rivals. Matches between these two teams are often intense, physical, and strategically fascinating. Recent encounters have been full of suspense, with close victories such as France's 27-24 win in 2024. Les Bleus, led by their iconic coach Fabien Galthié, are hungry for redemption after a few frustrating defeats in the Six Nations. This match is the ideal opportunity for them to take a big step towards their 2026 Grand Slam goal, with the support of their home crowd at the Stade de France.

Ireland, under the guidance of their coach, is a formidable team that relies on ultra-disciplined and fast play. Their kicking game will be crucial, as will their ability to handle the pressure in a packed Stade de France. Both teams will also need to be wary of the vagaries of attack and defence. Les Bleus have exceptional talents such as Antoine Dupont, Romain Ntamack and Damien Penaud, who are capable of changing the course of a match in a fraction of a second. Ireland, for its part, can count on its captain Johnny Sexton and other key players such as Caelan Doris to put constant pressure on the opposing team.

The kick-off will also be an opportunity to offer subscribers a range of exclusive content, including videos, analysis of the centre of play, focus on the scrum-half and full-back, and reports on any injuries or cards received. Every point and try, every attack, every successful or failed defence will be followed with passion. The success of this match could well establish French dominance in the tournament from the opening day. The match will be covered in the world news, with special content on the victory, the results and the latest reactions.

Above all, if a player is rested or injured, it could have serious consequences. But Les Bleus have prepared several options to compensate for any absences. The France-Ireland match is shaping up to be a sure-fire success, a clash of nations, a first encounter full of promise and results. The rugby world is holding its breath. Activate notifications, get a front-row seat, and savour this unique moment.

Activate alerts now to be among the first to be notified when tickets go on sale. This match could well mark the beginning of a historic victory, a successful tournament, and a beautiful page to add to the legend.