The Six Nations is more than a rugby championship, it’s the moment European sport reawakens. As winter fades, the tournament energises fans across the continent and signals the start of the spring events season. With Six Nations 2026 approaching, here’s who’s favoured to win and why the tournament marks the beginning of brighter months ahead and what Six Nations Hospitality you should attend.

Who’s Odds-On Favourite for 2026?

France Lead the Odds

France enter 2026 as defending champions after topping the 2025 table with bonus points from all five fixtures. Bookmakers place them at 4/9, the strongest odds in the field, giving them a 69% chance of retaining their title. Their schedule also helps: three home fixtures, including a potential decider against England.

England Close Behind

England’s autumn winning streak and recent form keep them firmly in contention, with odds between 9/2 and 11/4.
A crucial home fixture against Ireland may define their campaign.

Ireland: Always Competitive

Ireland sit at 13/2–5/1 in most markets.
They start the tournament away to France, making their path challenging from day one.

Outside Contenders
  • Scotland at 14/1
  • Wales at 100/1 after recent struggles
  • Italy at 150/1

Why the Six Nations Signals the Start of Spring

1. It Bridges Winter and Spring Naturally

Running 5 Feb–14 Mar 2026, the Six Nations sits perfectly at the turn of the seasons.
The calendar itself helps: a February–March window that nudges people back into pubs, stadiums and hospitality lounges as daylight stretches.

2. It Reignites Europe’s Sporting Buzz

A prime‑time, free‑to‑air showcase across the UK (BBC & ITV) and major networks internationally ensures fresh momentum for the sporting year.

3. It Opens the Door to Spring and Summer Events

With the Six Nations wrapping on 14 March, attention quickly rolls into golf, tennis, cricket and more — the perfect on‑ramp for corporate entertaining, including Cheltenham Gold Cup.

4. Hospitality Season Begins Here

For many businesses, this is the first major client‑engagement moment of the year — ideal for relationship‑building ahead of the summer peaks.

Six Nations 2026: Full Fixture List (GMT)

Round 1

Thu 5 Feb — France vs Ireland, Paris, 8:10pm
Sat 7 Feb — Italy vs Scotland, Rome, 2:10pm
Sat 7 Feb — England vs Wales, Twickenham, 4:40pm

Round 2

Sat 14 Feb — Ireland vs Italy, Dublin, 2:10pm
Sat 14 Feb — Scotland vs England, Edinburgh, 4:40pm
Sun 15 Feb — Wales vs France, Cardiff, 3:10pm

Round 3

Sat 21 Feb — England vs Ireland, Twickenham, 2:10pm
Sat 21 Feb — Wales vs Scotland, Cardiff, 4:40pm
Sun 22 Feb — France vs Italy, Lille, 3:10pm

Round 4

Fri 6 Mar — Ireland vs Wales, Dublin, 8:10pm
Sat 7 Mar — Scotland vs France, Edinburgh, 2:10pm
Sat 7 Mar — Italy vs England, Rome, 4:40pm

Round 5 (Super Saturday)

Sat 14 Mar — Ireland vs Scotland, Dublin, 2:10pm
Sat 14 Mar — Wales vs Italy, Cardiff, 4:40pm
Sat 14 Mar — France vs England, Paris, 8:10pm

Wales Rugby Hospitality: Premium Matchdays in Cardiff

The Heart of Welsh Rugby

Principality Stadium is famous for its atmosphere – loud, proud and unforgettable. Six Nations hospitality at the Principality blends passion with high‑end service, offering gourmet dining, excellent views and VIP attention.

Experience First Package Highlights

Private Suites
  • Balcony seats over the pitch
  • Three‑course Welsh menu & fine wines
  • Dedicated host, early entry, matchday programme
  • Visit from a rugby legend
Stiwdio
  • Intimate setting beside live broadcast studios
  • Relaxed dining and premium drinks
  • Direct balcony seating
Players’ Lounge
  • Hosted by rugby legends
  • Formal dining with insider analysis and entertainment

These Six Nations Hospitality packages are perfect for fans, families, and businesses wanting to elevate their Six Nations experience.

Final Thought

As the Six Nations kicks off, so does the wider spring events season. At Experience First, we specialise in creating premium rugby hospitality experiences that combine atmosphere, service, and unforgettable moments. EXPLORE HOSPITALITY PACKAGES and ensure your 2026 tournament experience is exceptional from start to finish.