The 2026 edition of the Women’s Six Nations Championship gets underway this weekend, with momentum behind the women’s game stronger than ever and a growing sense that the gap at the top – while still significant – is slowly beginning to close.
Defending champions England – The Red Roses – arrive once again as favourites, but familiar challengers and emerging contenders alike will be looking to disrupt their dominance in what promises to be one of the most competitive tournaments in recent years.
England: power, depth and expectation
England remain the benchmark. The Red Roses’ combination of physicality, tactical control and squad depth continues to set them apart, and anything less than a title will be viewed as underachievement.
Key figures such as Marlie Packer bring relentless breakdown presence and leadership, while Ellie Kildunne offers attacking spark from the backfield. England’s ability to blend power with tempo makes them uniquely difficult to contain over 80 minutes.
The question is not whether England are strong enough – but whether anyone can sustain pressure against them.
France: flair with unfinished business
If one side looks capable of pushing England all the way, it is France women’s national rugby union team. France have long combined athleticism with unpredictability, and when they click, they are the most dangerous attacking side in the competition.
Players like Romane Ménager provide dynamism in the pack, while backs such as Gabrielle Vernier can break games open. Consistency, however, remains the lingering issue. If France can tighten their execution, they are England’s most credible challengers.
Ireland: rebuilding with intent
Ireland women’s national rugby union team continue their rebuilding phase, but there are clear signs of progress. A more structured approach and renewed focus on player pathways are beginning to yield results.
Experienced leaders like Sam Monaghan anchor the forward effort, while younger players are being given opportunities to step into key roles. Ireland may not yet be title contenders, but they are no longer an easy fixture.
Scotland: belief growing
Scotland women’s national rugby union team have developed into a dangerous, well-organised side capable of upsetting higher-ranked opponents. Their physical edge and improved attacking structure have made them increasingly competitive.
Scrum-half Mairi McDonald is central to their tempo, while a combative pack gives them a solid platform. Scotland will be targeting a top-three finish and will believe they can take a major scalp along the way.
Wales: searching for consistency
For Wales women’s national rugby union team, the challenge is consistency. At their best, they can match anyone physically, but performances have fluctuated.
Players such as Hannah Jones provide leadership and midfield strength, yet Wales will need to convert pressure into points more effectively if they are to climb the table.
Italy: dangerous outsiders
Italy women’s national rugby union team continue to evolve as one of the most tactically interesting sides in the competition. Traditionally seen as outsiders, they now possess the ability to challenge established teams on their day.
Back-row talent like Elisa Giordano leads a side that thrives on quick ball and attacking ambition. Italy’s consistency will determine whether they can break into the top half of the table.
The title race: a familiar duel – so far
Despite the growing competitiveness across the tournament, the title race still appears likely to come down to a familiar showdown between England women’s national rugby union team and France women’s national rugby union team.
England’s depth and clinical edge give them the advantage over a full campaign, but France’s ability to produce moments of brilliance keeps them firmly in contention. If France can deliver consistency to match their flair, the gap could finally close.
A tournament on the rise
Beyond the race for the title, this year’s Women’s Six Nations Championship represents another step forward for the women’s game. Increased visibility, growing crowds and improved standards across all six teams underline a competition that is no longer just about one dominant force.
The challenge now is sustaining that growth – and turning potential into genuine rivalry at the top.
For now, all eyes turn to opening weekend, where the next chapter in one of rugby’s fastest-growing competitions begins.