Women’s Six Nations 2026 Fixtures, Schedule and Key Dates: Full Guide to the Championship
The Women’s Six Nations 2026 is underway, bringing together six of Europe’s strongest rugby nations in one of the biggest tournaments in the women’s game. Defending champions England are aiming to retain their title, while France, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Italy all hope to challenge for the championship.
With growing crowds, rising standards, and increasing global interest, the Women’s Six Nations continues to be one of the most exciting competitions in international rugby.
This guide covers the 2026 Women’s Six Nations fixtures, results, schedule, dates, favourites, and what fans can expect this year.
What Is the Women’s Six Nations?
The Women’s Six Nations is the premier annual women’s rugby union tournament in Europe. It features:
- England
- France
- Ireland
- Italy
- Scotland
- Wales
Each team plays five matches, facing every other nation once. Points are awarded for wins, draws, bonus points, and final table position determines the champion.
The competition has grown massively in recent years, with more television coverage, professional players, and record attendances.
Who Are the Defending Champions?
England enter the 2026 tournament as reigning champions after another dominant campaign in 2025. They remain one of the strongest teams in world rugby and are favourites once again to lift the trophy. (Sky Sports)
France are expected to be England’s biggest challengers, while Ireland and Scotland will also target strong finishes.
Women’s Six Nations 2026 Fixtures and Results
Round 1 – Saturday April 11
- France vs Italy
- England vs Ireland
- Wales vs Scotland
Round 2 – Saturday April 18
- Scotland vs England
- Wales vs France
- Ireland vs Italy
Round 3 – Saturday April 25
- England vs Wales
- Italy vs Scotland
- France vs Ireland
Round 4 – Saturday May 9
- Italy vs England
- Scotland vs France
- Ireland vs Wales
Round 5 – Sunday May 17
- Wales vs Italy
- Ireland vs Scotland
- France vs England (Sky Sports)
Biggest Match of the Tournament
France vs England – Final Round Showdown
One of the standout fixtures of the championship is the final-round clash between France and England. These two nations have built a fierce rivalry and often decide the title between them.
If both sides remain in strong form, this could once again be the match that determines the champions.
Teams to Watch
England
England remain the benchmark in women’s rugby. Their squad depth, physical power, and attacking quality make them favourites.
France
France are unpredictable, dangerous, and capable of beating any team on their day.
Ireland
Ireland continue to improve and could challenge for a top-three finish.
Scotland
Scotland have made progress in recent years and are capable of causing surprises.
Wales
Wales are rebuilding and will look to improve with every round.
Italy
Italy continue to develop and can be very competitive, especially at home.
Why the Women’s Six Nations Is Growing Fast
The Women’s Six Nations has become increasingly popular because of:
- Faster, attacking rugby
- Strong rivalries
- Better TV coverage
- Growing fan support
- More professional players
- Increased media attention
Women’s rugby is expanding quickly, and this tournament plays a major role in that growth.
How the Table Works
Teams receive:
- 4 points for a win
- 2 points for a draw
- Bonus points for scoring tries or losing narrowly
- Extra points for winning all five games (Grand Slam)
The team with the most points at the end wins the title.
SEO Key Questions Fans Ask
When does the Women’s Six Nations 2026 end?
The tournament finishes on Sunday May 17, 2026. (Sky Sports)
Who are favourites to win?
England are favourites, with France their biggest challengers.
Where can I watch it?
Coverage varies by country, with major broadcasters carrying matches across Europe.
Final Thoughts
The Women’s Six Nations 2026 promises another brilliant championship filled with high-quality rugby, fierce rivalries, and major title drama. England begin as favourites, but France, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Italy will all believe they can make a strong impact.
With the women’s game growing every year, this tournament is becoming essential viewing for rugby fans around the world.