Reigning Six Nations champions France sent the rest of the competition a clear message in the opening match of 2026 edition, thrashing Ireland 36-14.

From the first whistle at a rain-soaked Stade de France, Les Bleus imposed themselves physically and tactically, racing into an unassailable 29-0 lead before Ireland finally struck back in the second half.

The hosts were ruthless in the opening 50 minutes. After an early territorial battle, France opened the scoring in the 13th minute when wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey finished a brilliant individual break down the left flank, with Thomas Ramos converting.

France’s precision and tempo never let up: Matthieu Jalibert crossed shortly after to extend the lead, followed by a penalty from Ramos and a powerful forwards move, started by Mikael Guillard, and finished by Charles Ollivon.

By half-time France were firmly in control at 22-0, their pack and backs firing on all cylinders.

The second half continued in similar fashion as France kept Ireland pinned deep.

Dupont’s clever chip ahead and a fortunate bounce off a Thomas Ramos volley allowed Bielle-Biarrey to score his second try early after the break, Ramos again adding the extras to put France within sight of the bonus point at 29-0.

Ireland’s response came after the introduction of fresh legs. Replacements Nick Timoney and Michael Milne both crossed in quick succession on 58 and 62 minutes, offering brief respite and reducing the deficit to 29-14 with Sam Prendergast converting both efforts.

However, any hopes of a full comeback were dashed when Théo Attissogbe capped the night with a late try in the corner, Ramos converting to seal the 36-14 scoreline.

France’s performance was built on dynamic ball-carrying, a relentless defensive front, and clinical finishing, earning them a valuable bonus point on match day one. Ireland, hampered by injuries and sloppy execution early on, will need to regroup ahead of their next fixture against Italy.

The result places France atop the Six Nations table, setting a formidable tone for their title defence as the championship unfolds. Up next? Wales in Cardiff…

If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.

Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.

You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.