France enter the weekend as the tournament’s formidable pace-setters, fresh from a record-breaking demolition of Wales and looking every bit the reigning champions. However, they face an Italy side currently enjoying an uptick in form and expectation. The Azzurri have already stunned Scotland this year and pushed Ireland to the absolute limit in Dublin.
While Les Bleus were clinical in their 11-try victory during last year's meeting, this encounter promises more intrigue. Italy’s backline trio of Tommaso Menoncello, Paolo Garbisi, and Monty Ioane bring an attacking ambition that should thrive under Lille's retractable roof. France will counter with the peerless Antoine Dupont and the supremely prolific Louis Bielle-Biarrey in front of a passionate home crowd. Expect a high-octane battle where Gallic flair meets Italian resilience in one of Europe’s most versatile sporting arenas.
🗓️ Date: Sunday 22 February 2026
🕒 Kick-off: 15:10 GMT
🏟️ Venue: Stade Pierre Mauroy, Lille
📺 How to watch: Live on ITV (UK) – full broadcast details here
🎟️ Tickets: Via FFR
👥 Team News
France: 15. Thomas Ramos; 14. Théo Attissogbe, 13. Émilien Gailleton, 12. Fabien Brau-Boirie, 11. Louis Bielle-Biarrey; 10. Matthieu Jalibert, 9. Antoine Dupont (c); 1. Jean-Baptiste Gros, 2. Julien Marchand, 3. Dorian Aldegheri; 4. Thibaud Flament, 5. Emmanuel Meafou; 6. François Cros, 7. Oscar Jegou, 8. Anthony Jelonch
Replacements: 16. Peato Mauvaka, 17. Rodrigue Neti, 18. Georges-Henri Colombe, 19. Charles Ollivon, 20. Mickaël Guillard, 21. Lenni Nouchi, 22. Baptiste Serin, 23. Pierre-Louis Barassi
Italy: 15. Ange Capuozzo; 14. Louis Lynagh, 13. Tommaso Menoncello, 12. Leonardo Marin, 11. Monty Ioane; 10. Paolo Garbisi, 9. Alessandro Fusco; 1. Lorenzo Cannone, 2. Manuel Zuliani, 3. Michele Lamaro (c); 4. Andrea Zambonin, 5. Niccolò Cannone; 6. Simone Ferrari, 7. Giacomo Nicotera, 8. Danilo Fischetti
Replacements: 16. Pablo Dimcheff, 17. Mirco Spagnolo, 18. Giosuè Zilocchi, 19. Federico Ruzza, 20. Riccardo Favretto, 21. David Odiase, 22. Alessandro Garbisi, 23. Paolo Odogwu
🔮 Predictions
Oval Insights have given France a convincing 87% chance of winning repeating last year's title heroics, although they fancy their Grand Slam chances at a lesser 42%. France will be heavy favourites going into this match, but don't rule out Italy having more than a few tricks up their sleeve in order to upset the odds.
A trans-alpine encounter at the midway point of the Championship, this match represents a key opportunity to build momentum going into the closing rounds. A Sunday afternoon showpiece in Lille with its unique atmosphere make this match an intriguing prospect.
Traditionally, France have dominated this fixture, but Italy have upset them before and pushed them close in recent years. The Azzurri’s attacking ambition, coupled with France’s flair, means fans can expect fast-paced rugby and plenty of tries.
Last time out
Les Bleus were in a destructive mood the last time these two met in Rome during the 2025 Championship, running in eleven tries to Italy's three in a relentless display of efficiency. France had a point to prove that day, having lost late in the game to England in the previous round, and Italy paid the price for it.
About the venue
Stade Pierre Mauroy is a 50,000-seat, multi-purpose stadium in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, just outside Lille, best known as the home of Ligue 1 football club LOSC Lille. Featuring a retractable roof and adaptable interior, it regularly stages major sporting events and concerts.
While primarily a football venue, it has become an important rugby stage, hosting Test matches, Top 14 fixtures and games during Rugby World Cup 2023. The stadium has also welcomed fixtures at Euro 2016 and events during the Paris 2024 Olympics, underlining its status as one of France’s most versatile major arenas.
FAQs
When is France v Italy in the 2026 Six Nations?
Sunday 22 February.
Where will France v Italy be played in the 2026 Six Nations?
Stade Pierre Mauroy, Lille.
What time does France v Italy kick off?
15:10 GMT, 16:10 Local Time
Is France v Italy part of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations?
Yes. The two teams have faced each other every year since Italy joined the Championship in 2000.
Which round of the 2026 Six Nations is France v Italy?
Round three of the Championship.
How have France v Italy performed in recent Six Nations matches?
France are the reigning champions and look like favourites for the title after dispatching Ireland and Wales in convincing fashion this year. Italy impressed in beating Scotland on the opening weekend, and pushed Ireland all the way last Saturday in Dublin before ultimately losing.
Who are the players to watch in France v Italy?
Besides the likes of the iconic Antoine Dupont, some newer faces are coming to the fore such as wing Théo Attissogbe and the inaugural Weekend MVP, Mickaël Guillard, the second row. Italy, meanwhile, are enjoying a renaissance in their front row, with tighthead prop Simone Ferrari enjoying a fine campaign thus far, as is openside Manuel Zuliani.
Where can I watch France v Italy live on TV or stream?
UK viewers can watch the match on ITV. In France it will be shown on France TV, and on Sky Italia in Italy. If you're watching from outside of these countries, we have a helpful 'Where to watch' guide.
Where can I find the latest France v Italy team news?
We'll be updating fans with the latest team news on the Six Nations Rugby website, WhatsApp channel, and social media platforms (including Instagram).