Watch France vs Ireland: Six Nations Kick-off Time, Channel, and Coverage

Bassyonni

Published: February 5, 2026 3:35 PM ET

Watch France vs Ireland: Six Nations Kick-off Time, Channel, and Coverage

The opening match of the 2026 Six Nations will see France face Ireland in a highly anticipated clash. This encounter marks the first Thursday fixture in Six Nations history and emphasizes the significance of both teams, as they have shared the championship titles in the past seasons. Both sides are keen to start the tournament on a high note.

Match Details

Date: Thursday, 5 February 2026
Kick-off Time: 8:10 PM GMT
Location: Stade de France, Paris

How to Watch France vs Ireland

Fans in the United Kingdom can catch the live coverage of the match on ITV1, starting at 7:20 PM GMT. Additionally, viewers can stream the game live via ITVX.

Team News

France returns to the field with notable player Antoine Dupont back in action. He previously suffered an ACL injury during this fixture last year. He will partner with Matthieu Jalibert, who steps in for the injured Romain Ntamack. A strong selection of Bordeaux Begles players also features in the squad.

In the French forward line, Dorian Aldegheri fills the tighthead position, following the recent retirement of Uini Atonio. The lineup is further solidified despite Emmanuel Meafou being withheld on the bench.

France Starting XV

1. Jean-Baptiste Gros
2. Julien Marchand
3. Dorian Aldegheri
4. Charles Ollivon
5. Mickael Guillard
6. Francois Cros
7. Oscar Jegou
8. Anthony Jelonch
9. Antoine Dupont (capt.)
10. Matthieu Jalibert
11. Louis Bielle-Biarrey
12. Yoram Moefana
13. Nicolas Depoortere
14. Theo Attissogbe
15. Thomas Ramos

The French replacements include notable names like Peato Mauvaka and Baptiste Serin, showcasing their depth and skill across the board.

Ireland Starting XV

For Ireland, the Prendergast brothers will start in a Test together for the first time. Sam Prendergast will take the No. 10 position, while Cian Prendergast is set to play in the back row. The squad will face challenges due to injuries, as Tadhg Furlong is unavailable, necessitating a reshuffle in the tighthead position.

1. Jeremy Loughman
2. Dan Sheehan
3. Thomas Clarkson
4. Joe McCarthy
5. Tadhg Beirne
6. Cian Prendergast
7. Josh van der Flier
8. Caelan Doris (capt.)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park
10. Sam Prendergast
11. Jacob Stockdale
12. Stuart McCloskey
13. Garry Ringrose
14. Tommy O’Brien
15. Jamie Osborne

The Irish bench is well-stacked with players ready to make an impact, including Ronan Kelleher and Jack Conan.

Conclusion

This exciting matchup promises to deliver high-voltage rugby as both teams aim for success in the tournament. With the kickoff fast approaching, anticipation builds for what could be a defining moment in this year’s Six Nations campaign.