France vs Italy: How to Watch & Stream Six Nations 2026 Rugby Free

Lille, France – France defeated Italy 33-8 on Sunday in a scrappy Six Nations match, maintaining their unbeaten run and solidifying their position as favorites to retain the championship title. The victory, secured at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille, came despite a resilient performance from Italy, who trailed by only 11 points at halftime.

The French side, led by captain Antoine Dupont, demonstrated their depth with a dominant display, scoring five tries through Gaël Dréan, Emilien Gailleton, Emmanuel Meafou, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, and a penalty try. Matthieu Jalibert added a penalty and two conversions, while Thomas Ramos contributed a conversion. Italy’s points came from a Paolo Garbisi penalty and a try from Monty Ioane.

France’s win marks their third consecutive victory in this year’s tournament, following earlier successes against Ireland and Wales. Fabien Galthié’s team now leads the Six Nations standings and can clinch the championship with another bonus-point win in their next match against Scotland in Edinburgh on March 7. This would be France’s first back-to-back Six Nations titles since 2006-07.

Italy, coached by Gonzalo Quesada, proved a stubborn opponent, particularly in the first half. The Azzurri, who secured a historic victory over Scotland in the opening round and came close to upsetting Ireland in Dublin, showed glimpses of their growing competitiveness. The return of Ange Capuozzo at full-back, after recovering from injury, provided a boost to the Italian attack.

The match saw changes to both lineups. France made two adjustments to their starting XV in the second row, bringing in Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou. Italy made one change, welcoming back Capuozzo. The French replacements, including Peato Mauvaka, Georges-Henri Colombe, and Pierre-Louis Barassi, added further strength to their squad.

The game was officiated by Irish referee Andrew Brace, assisted by Luke Pearce of England and Eoghan Cross of Ireland, with Olly Hodges serving as the Television Match Official (TMO).

Despite the win, France’s attack wasn’t as fluid as in previous matches against Ireland and Wales. Italy’s defense forced the French to work hard for their tries, and the match remained competitive for long stretches. The bonus point, secured late in the game, ultimately proved crucial for France’s championship aspirations.