France Secure Second Consecutive Six Nations Title in Thrilling Victory Over England

SAINT-DENIS, France – In a match for the ages, the French national rugby team defeated England 48-46 on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, securing their second consecutive Six Nations title. This victory marks the first time since 2006-2007 that France has achieved back-to-back championships and their third title in the last five years.

The match, a nail-biting affair from start to finish, saw both sides trading blows in a contest that will be remembered as one of the greatest in Six Nations history. Ireland’s earlier victory over Scotland (43-21) had set the stage, leaving France knowing exactly what they needed to do to lift the trophy once more. The atmosphere at the Stade de France was electric, heightened by the commemoration of the 120th anniversary of the “Crunch,” the historic rivalry between France and England.

A Back-and-Forth Battle at the Stade de France

The opening exchanges were frantic. An early attempt by England to score was thwarted by the referee, setting the tone for a fiercely contested match. Louis Bielle-Biarrey quickly position France on the board with a try in the 7th minute (7-0), igniting the home crowd. However, England responded swiftly with a try from Tom Roebuck in the 10th minute (7-5), demonstrating their intent to challenge the reigning champions.

Bielle-Biarrey continued to be a constant threat, scoring his second try in the 13th minute (14-5), showcasing his speed and finishing ability. England, however, refused to yield, with Cadan Murley crossing the line in the 19th minute (14-10) to retain the game within reach. The first half continued to swing back and forth, with Thomas Ramos adding a penalty for France in the 23rd minute (17-10).

England’s forward power began to assert itself, earning them a try through Ollie Chessum in the 26th minute (17-17). Further pressure led to another try from Alex Coles in the 34th minute and a penalty from Fin Smith in the 38th minute, giving England a 17-27 lead. Facing a significant deficit, France rallied before halftime, earning a penalty try in the 40th+4 minute (24-27) to narrow the gap and regain momentum.

Bielle-Biarrey Shines as France Surge Ahead

The second half saw France come out firing. Bielle-Biarrey completed his hat-trick in the 42nd minute (31-27), capitalizing on an opportunity created by Antoine Dupont. Théo Attissogbe then extended France’s lead with a try in the 49th minute (38-27). However, England wouldn’t go quietly. Ollie Chessum intercepted a pass and scored a try in the 51st minute (38-32), before Marcus Smith’s try in the 57th minute (38-39) put England back in front.

In a remarkable display of individual brilliance, Bielle-Biarrey scored his fourth try of the match in the 66th minute (45-39), once again demonstrating his exceptional talent. A yellow card for Bamba in the closing stages presented England with an opportunity, and they seized it, with Tommy Freeman scoring a try in the 77th minute (45-46).

With the clock ticking down and the scores level, the tension was palpable. It was Thomas Ramos who stepped up to deliver the decisive penalty in the 80th+3 minute (48-46), securing the victory for France and sending the Stade de France into raptures.

🏆🇫🇷 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 🤩 LE SIX NATIONS RESTE À LA MAISON ! https://t.co/qIHg5JbGbu

— France Rugby (@FranceRugby) March 14, 2026

Key Stats and Performances

Louis Bielle-Biarrey was undoubtedly the standout performer of the match, scoring four tries and proving to be a constant menace to the English defense. Thomas Ramos contributed 18 points through his accurate kicking, including the crucial match-winning penalty. For England, Marcus Smith and Ollie Chessum both scored tries, but their efforts ultimately weren’t enough to overcome the French onslaught.

France:

• Tries: Louis Bielle-Biarrey (4), Théo Attissogbe, Penalty Try
• Conversions: Thomas Ramos (4)
• Penalties: Thomas Ramos (1)

England:

• Tries: Tom Roebuck, Cadan Murley, Ollie Chessum (2), Alex Coles, Marcus Smith, Tommy Freeman
• Conversions: Marcus Smith (2), Fin Smith (2)
• Penalties: Fin Smith (1)

What’s Next for the French Team?

With the Six Nations title secured, France will now turn their attention to future challenges. The team will likely participate in summer tours and prepare for the next edition of the Six Nations in 2027. The victory solidifies France’s position as one of the leading forces in international rugby.

The French team’s success is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the quality of their coaching staff. This victory will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of rugby players in France and further strengthen the nation’s passion for the sport.

What did you think of the match? Share your thoughts in the comments below!