Ireland to begin 2026 Six Nations away to France on a Thursday night

Michael Bolton

Ireland will begin their 2026 Six Nations on a Thursday away to France.

Andy Farrell's side will face the defending champions in a first-ever Thursday night fixture in the Six Nations, with the venue yet to be confirmed, and the game to kick off at 8.10 pm Irish time.

The game is on a Thursday to ensure it does not clash with the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Ireland's second game will be at home to Italy on Saturday, February 14th, before travelling to England a week later.

From next year, the men’s Six Nations will move from two fallow weeks to just one.

After the break, Ireland will host Wales on Friday, March 6th, before taking on Scotland at home in the final game.

Ireland's Six Nations fixtures:

Thursday February 5th

France v Ireland, 8.10 pm.

Saturday, February 14th

Ireland v Italy, 2.10 pm

Saturday February 21st

England v Ireland, 2.10 pm.

Friday, March 6th

Ireland v Wales, 8.10 pm.

Saturday March 14th

Ireland v Scotland, 2.10 pm.