The 2025 Six Nations Championship is nearly upon us, promising exhilarating match-ups, upset potential, and no shortage of subplots as Europe’s rugby powers collide. From luckless England to resurgent France to title-chasing Ireland, the storylines are abundant in this 128th edition of the venerated tournament. Let’s dive into the state of play for each team.
France: On the Hunt for a Grand Slam
After their heartbreaking World Cup defeat on home soil, Les Bleus enter the Six Nations as firm favorites. The mercurial brilliance of Antoine Dupont and a hardened pack make France formidable. Three away fixtures will test their mettle, but the talent is there to claim their first title and grand slam since 2010.
If France can win at Twickenham in round two, a grand slam will be within their grasp.
– Raphael Ibanez, former France captain
Key Player: Thomas Ramos
While the dazzling backs grab headlines, fullback Ramos could be France’s trump card with his metronomic kicking. In tight matches, his boot may make the difference.
Ireland: Chasing an Unprecedented Treble
Ireland are bidding to make history with a third straight Six Nations crown, a feat never achieved in the tournament’s storied past. How they adapt to life after Andy Farrell and Johnny Sexton will be critical. A daunting trip to Paris looms in round four.
- 2021 Six Nations Champions
- 2022 Triple Crown Winners
- Ranked #1 in World Rugby
Heir Apparent: Sam Prendergast
Leinster’s rising star looks poised to fill Sexton’s sizable shoes. His poise and game management belie his youth. Ireland’s hopes may rest on his young shoulders.
England: Beset by Injuries and Inconsistency
It’s been a tumultuous 18 months for England under Steve Borthwick. A World Cup semifinal papered over patchy form. Now ravaged by injuries and facing three away games, England look vulnerable. The Twickenham faithful will demand a strong showing against France and Scotland.
English rugby is at a crossroads. This Six Nations is huge for Borthwick and his players.
– Lawrence Dallaglio, England legend
Scrum-Half Showdown
The battle between Alex Mitchell and Jack van Poortvliet for the #9 jersey will be fascinating. Both are dynamic, attacking threats but can they provide the control England crave?
Scotland: Perennial Dark Horses
Is this the year Scotland finally put it all together? Gregor Townsend’s men have flickered in recent championships without sustaining a title challenge. If they can win their first two home games against Wales and Ireland, a first Triple Crown since 1990 is possible. But as ever with Scotland, consistency is the question mark.
Russell’s Last Stand?
Talismanic fly-half Finn Russell is approaching the end of his international career. Can he conjure some magic in what may be his Six Nations swansong?
Wales: Stuck in a Rut
Welsh rugby is at its lowest ebb for some time. A dire autumn has left Warren Gatland firefighting on his return. An unsettled squad and tough fixture list – Wales face trips to Paris, Edinburgh and Rome – make them wooden spoon favorites. It would take a minor miracle to avoid a 13th straight defeat when they open against France.
Wales look lost. I fear it could get ugly before it gets better.
– Sam Warburton, former Wales captain
Slim Silver Linings
The return of Lions stars Taulupe Faletau, Liam Williams and Josh Adams does provide some cause for optimism. Gatland will lean heavily on their experience to navigate choppy waters.
Italy: The Eternal Underdogs
After years of Six Nations heartache, are Italy finally ready to shed their wooden spoon holders tag? Their two wins last year, including a historic triumph in Wales, hint at better things to come. With Ireland up last in Rome, the Azzurri will relish the chance to play spoilers on the final weekend.
| 2022 Position | 5th |
| Key Player | Ange Capuozzo |
| One to Watch | Lorenzo Cannone |
Azzurri on the Rise
Exciting talents like Ange Capuozzo, Paolo Garbisi and Tommaso Menoncello suggest Italy now have the firepower to rattle the established order. Another fifth place finish is achievable.
Verdict: Too Close to Call
With so many intriguing storylines and the unpredictable nature of post-World Cup rugby, this is an especially tough Six Nations to call. France and Ireland look a cut above, but write off England and Scotland at your peril. Wales may toil while Italy could be this year’s surprise package. One thing seems certain – we’re in for a championship of high drama and fierce rivalries. Bring it on.
