2026 Six Nations Round 1 Fixtures - Get all the dates, times, fixtures & venues for the opening round of the 2026 Six Nations
The 2026 Six Nations Championship is set to begin with an unusual start on Thursday, February 5, as France hosts Ireland. This change aims to avoid clashing with the Winter Olympics opening in Milan. The France vs Ireland match is viewed as the key fixture of the opening round, offering the winner a strong position for the title. Italy will challenge Scotland, seeking an upset in Rome, while England, with 11 consecutive wins, are expected to overpower Wales at Twickenham. Expectations are high for an exciting tournament kickoff.
- 2026 Six Nations starts Feb 5 with France vs Ireland.
- Italy eyes upset vs Scotland; England favored vs Wales.
- Spectacular opening expected; don't miss the action!
Ireland and France kick Round 1 of the 2026 Six Nations off (Getty Images)
The 2026 Six Nations kicks off, rather unusually, on Thursday, 5 February when France host Ireland in the opening fixture. This has come about to avoid clashing with the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan.
It is also certainly the biggest game of the opening round with the winner putting themselves in a great spot to claim the title. On Saturday, Italy will be looking to upset the odds against Scotland in Rome before England are favourites to dismantle Wales at Twickenham to close the weekend out.
Six Nations Round 1 Fixtures
| Date | Time (SAST) | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 February | 22:10 | France vs Ireland | Stade de France |
| 7 February | 16:10 | Italy vs Scotland | Stadio Olympico |
| 7 February | 18:40 | England vs Wales | Twickenham |
France vs Ireland
France are comfortably favourites at home with Easybet giving them a -13.5 handicap. While Ireland are third favourites to win the title, they have dropped off in performance over the last two years as senior players have retired. France on the other hand have an exceptionally strong squad of players and will fancy their chances - particularly after dismantling Ireland in Dublin in the 2025 Six Nations.
Italy vs Scotland
This should be another enticing game and one that Italy will view as a serious possibility of an upset. They are no strangers to beating Scotland, particularly at home and have achieved some solid results in recent years, including a victory over Australia in November 2025. Scotland are dark horses for the tournament and while their consistency lets them down against top sides, they are often the 'Kingmakers' in the Six Nations.
England vs Wales
England's form has been phenomenal with 11 wins in their last 11 starts. They should have little issue brushing aside a Welsh side that is a shadow of their former selves. The handicap is set at 28.5 which ultimately tells the story of a one-sided fixture.
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