The opening weekend of the Championship starts with a fascinating tactical battle as France host Italy at the Stade des Alpes in Grenoble. It's a match that marks a new chapter for both trans-Alpine foes.
Few opening fixtures carry this level of strategic intrigue. France arrive under the new leadership of François Ratier, the man who famously masterminded Canada's rise to a World Cup final, now tasked with refining Les Bleues into a structured global powerhouse. Italy, meanwhile, continue their rapid evolution under Fabio Roselli, appearing more athletic and cohesive than ever following a year of intensive professional integration.
With both sides desperate to prove they can break the Anglo hold on the trophy, this encounter provides a chance to set the tone for the entire Championship. Expect a clash of styles as the power and precision of France meets the high-tempo ambition of the Azzurre.
🗓️ Date: Saturday 11 April
🕑 Kick-off: 12:25 BST / 13:25 Local
🏟️ Venue: Stade des Alpes, Grenoble
📺 Broadcast: France TV (FRA), Sky Italia (ITA), BBC iPlayer (UK) - How to watch
📝 Referee: Aimee Barrett-Theron
🎟️ Tickets: FFR
Players to watch
🇫🇷 FRANCE: Fly-half Carla Arbez has rapidly become the director of the French backline, a tactical playmaker whose vision and pinpoint kicking game allow Les Bleues to dictate the tempo of the match. In the second row, captain Manaé Feleu remains the world-class standard. The Grenoble lock balances her medical studies with a relentless defensive work rate and supreme lineout command. Centre Gabrielle Vernier remains the world-class linchpin of the French midfield, a player whose relentless defensive grit is matched only by her ability to ghost through gaps in the opposition line.
🇮🇹 ITALY: For Italy’s trip to Grenoble, expect Michela Sillari to be up for the fight. With 94 caps to her name, the 33-year-old centre is out to prove she can be the focal point of Italy's attack. In the front row, Silvia Turani provides the essential professional edge; the Harlequins prop brings elite Premiership experience and a modern mobility that allows her to act as an extra loose forward.
Italy’s Alyssa D’Incà on the attack during a 2025 international fixture.
Last three Championship meetings:
2025: ITA 21-34 FRA
2024: FRA 38-15 ITA
2023: ITA 12-22 FRA
Italy ready to disrupt the order?
France have often held the advantage in this fixture, but the gap is narrowing. Les Bleues are in a state of transition under François Ratier, who has in the past shown a willingness to blood young talent over established names in his search for a winning formula.
However, Italy have shown remarkable tactical growth, with a commitment to a faster, more incisive style of play. Their performances in the 2025 campaign suggested a team that is no longer content with being just competitive, but is actively hunting for a statement win on French soil.
Fabio Roselli's side will be looking to capitalise on any early-season rustiness from a new-look French side, buoyed by the fact that many of their stars are now playing week-in, week-out in the world's toughest professional leagues.
France v Italy: FAQs
When is France vs Italy in the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations? Saturday 11th April.
Where will France vs Italy be played? At the Stade des Alpes, Grenoble.
What time does France vs Italy kick off? 12:25 BST (13:25 Local).
Is France vs Italy part of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations? Yes. This is the first fixture of the opening weekend of the 2026 Championship.
Which round of the 2026 Six Nations is France vs Italy? Round one - the opening weekend of the tournament.
How have France and Italy performed recently? France enter the tournament under new head coach François Ratier, looking to rebuild after a transitional 2025. Italy arrive in Grenoble with significant momentum, fuelled by the integration of nine uncapped stars and a new, high-tempo tactical identity under Fabio Roselli.
Who are the players to watch in France vs Italy? France will be led by captain Manaé Feleu, aided in no small part by the powerful likes of Nassira Konde. For Italy, veteran prop Silvia Turani will anchor the scrum, while the clinical Alyssa D’Incà is expected once again to ignite the Italian attack.
Where can I watch France vs Italy live on TV or stream? In France, the match will be broadcast on France TV. In Italy, it will be shown on Sky Italia. For UK viewers, the match will be available via BBC iPlayer.
Where can I find the latest France vs Italy team news? Official team announcements will be shared on the Six Nations Rugby website, our WhatsApp channel, and across all official social media platforms as we approach match day.