France Favored to Win 2026 Six Nations Rugby with Antoine Dupont’s Return

The 2026 Six Nations Rugby Tournament kicked off on February 5, with the reigning champions, France, entering the competition as clear favorites. The opening match itself set a thrilling tone as France faced Ireland, their traditional rival and the site of last year's injury setback for their star player Antoine Dupont.

Dupont's return to the French squad after an 11-month absence due to a severe knee ligament injury marks a significant boost for the team. The injury took place during the previous encounter with Ireland, forcing Dupont off the field early on. Now fully recovered and ready to lead, Dupont is gearing up to play in front of a packed Stade de France, with 80,000 supporters expected. His coach, Fabien Galthié, emphasized Dupont’s value, stating, "Antoine Dupont, it's a plus, that's for sure."

The French team benefits from a particularly favorable schedule in this tournament, featuring three home matches, including key games against Ireland and England. This advantageous setup enhances their bid to secure a consecutive championship — something France has not achieved since the 2006-2007 season. Rugby expert Jean-Gabriel Bontinck has also weighed in, highlighting France's strong position in the tournament due to this favorable calendar and their solid squad.

Dupont’s personal track record against Ireland, with four wins and three losses, adds an extra edge to the rivalry. The player expressed eagerness to return and help France aim for a second straight Six Nations title, reflecting the team’s ambitious objectives for the season.

As the tournament progresses, France’s combination of home advantage and the much-anticipated return of their star fly-half places them at the forefront of contenders, with fans and analysts alike watching closely to see if they can convert favorability into victory.