Can You Identify the Star Players of the Six Nations?

In the exhilarating opening round of the 2026 Six Nations, fans witnessed outstanding performances from various teams, making it a memorable start to the tournament. The clash between France, England, Italy, and Scotland showcased exceptional talent, while Ireland and Wales faced tough challenges. This quiz invites you to identify six standout players from each participating nation based on clues and photos, testing your rugby knowledge and memory of the recent matches.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the 2026 Six Nations unfolds, the excitement among rugby fans is palpable. The opening weekend delivered thrilling matches, with France emerging as a formidable force, England dominating their opponents, and Italy battling fiercely against Scotland amidst challenging weather conditions. The tournament is proving to be a showcase of skill and strategy, setting the stage for an intense competition ahead.

Key takeaways

France and England demonstrated their strong potential for the tournament.
Italy's resilience against Scotland highlights their competitive spirit.
Ireland and Wales face pressure to recover in upcoming matches.

Timeline: how we got here

The 2026 Six Nations kicked off on 14 January 2026, with fixtures that included key matchups such as France vs. Ireland and England vs. Wales. The tournament is set to run until 19 March 2026, culminating in the crowning of the champion. Significant milestones include the performances of individual players and the tactical decisions made by coaches throughout the opening weekend.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Following the opening matches, several players have emerged as key contributors, notably in France and England, where their performances have set high expectations for the remainder of the tournament.

What was already established

The historical rivalry among the Six Nations teams is well-known, with England and France typically viewed as frontrunners. Italy’s continual improvement has also been noted, especially in their close match against Scotland.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Six Nations not only captivates sports enthusiasts but also influences local economies, particularly in areas hosting matches. Pubs and restaurants see increased patronage during game days, and merchandise sales experience a boost.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses, especially those associated with hospitality and tourism, can benefit significantly from the influx of fans. Job opportunities may arise in event management and security as the tournament progresses.

Policy and regulation

The UK government often engages in discussions about sports funding and support for grassroots initiatives, partly driven by the visibility and popularity of events like the Six Nations.

Numbers that matter

80,000: Anticipated attendance at key matches across the tournament.
6: The number of participating nations in the Six Nations.
50%: Estimated increase in viewership for this year's tournament compared to the last.

Definitions and jargon buster

Six Nations: An annual rugby union competition involving England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales.
Bonus Point: An additional point awarded to teams for scoring four or more tries in a match.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the tournament progresses, teams will assess their strategies and player performances, with crucial matches approaching that could determine standings.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the Six Nations, attention will shift towards player selection for international tours, including the Rugby World Cup preparations.

Signals to watch

Team selections and injury reports will be critical as the tournament unfolds.
Match results and player statistics will provide insights into team strengths and weaknesses.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay updated with match schedules and player news.
Engage with local events and viewing parties to enhance your experience.

Don’t

Miss out on important matches due to lack of planning.
Overlook the impact of injuries on team performance.

Checklist

Know when your team is playing and plan to watch.
Follow your favourite players on social media for updates.
Consider local venues for a communal viewing experience.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As the tournament progresses, unexpected injuries or changes in player form can significantly impact team dynamics. Additionally, weather conditions can influence match outcomes, as seen in the opening round. Fans should remain adaptable to changes in schedule or match conditions.

Bottom line

The 2026 Six Nations is off to an exhilarating start, with performances that have set the stage for an exciting tournament. As fans, staying informed and engaged will enhance your experience, whether you are supporting a team or simply enjoying the sport.

FAQs

What teams are participating in the 2026 Six Nations?

The teams participating in the 2026 Six Nations are England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales.

When does the Six Nations tournament end?

The Six Nations tournament will conclude on 19 March 2026.

How can I watch the Six Nations matches?

Matches can be watched through various sports broadcasters that hold the rights to air the Six Nations in your region.