🗓️ Date: Saturday 14 March 2026
🕗 Kick-off: 20:10 GMT
🏟️ Venue: Stade de France, Paris
📺 How to watch: ITV - more TV info here.
🎟️ Tickets: Available via FFR.
Match overview
A marquee showdown as France take on England in Round 5 of the 2026 Guinness Men’s Six Nations - a fixture drenched in history, rivalry and high stakes. With both sides likely vying for top-table honours, this clash could go a long way in deciding the Championship’s outcome.
Recent head-to-head
France and England, two of Europe’s heavyweight rugby nations, have delivered some of the sport’s fiercest contests over the years. Their encounters frequently feature tactical battles, spirited defences and, yes, moments that make it clear why this fixture is affectionately known as 'Le Crunch'.
The head-to-head in this meeting currently stands in favour of England at 61-44, but until 2025's one-point victory for Steve Borthwick's men, it was Les Bleus who had won three on the spin.
What’s at stake
For France: a win at home would reinforce their claim to Championship dominance, especially building on positive momentum from earlier rounds.
For England: a strong performance in Paris - away from home, under pressure - would be a statement of ambition, potentially altering perceptions of their Championship credentials.
Players to Watch
France: Their wing combination of Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud is undoubtedly the most potent in world rugby, capable of piercing defences with speed and guile. They boast an enviable set of forwards - maybe one of the few to rival South Africa's - which will be out to determine the physical narrative against an equally ferocious England pack.
England: Fly-half George Ford, ever the cerebral operator, can manipulate field position and tempo with subtle kicking and game-management. Prop Ellis Genge is the heart and soul of the pack, while Tommy Freeman can make a statement on his upward trajectory up against the aforementioned French wing duo.
Expect a tactical chess match, structured use of set pieces, defensive fire, and likely a late-game flourish. Pride, history and Championship points all on the line. This could be one for the ages.
Paris on game day
Heading to the French capital for the big game? Try out our handy guide for some tips and advice on navigating the city on game day.