Jonny Wilkinson Praises French Rugby Team’s Stellar Performance in 2026 Six Nations Victory

Former England rugby star Jonny Wilkinson expressed deep admiration for the French national team following their thrilling victory over England in the 2026 Six Nations Championship. The closely contested match ended 48-46 in favor of France, with Thomas Ramos playing a decisive role by successfully kicking the winning penalty under immense pressure. Wilkinson, attending the event organized by the LNR in France, highlighted Ramos’s composure and talent, describing him as “an inspiration for everyone” who “knows how to create magic.”

Wilkinson also praised other pivotal French players such as Antoine Dupont and Louis Bielle-Biarrey, noting that these athletes are fundamentally reshaping modern rugby. While he refrained from naming any single best player, Wilkinson underscored Ramos’s extraordinary skill and revolutionary impact on the sport.

In addition to individual accolades, Wilkinson offered insights into the dynamic rivalry within the French squad between Matthieu Jalibert and Romain Ntamack. He described their competition as both a blessing and a curse — a significant advantage due to their complementary skills but a potential source of pressure for the players and coaching staff. Jalibert was characterized as an instinctive and unpredictable talent capable of game-changing moments, while Ntamack was lauded for his tactical mastery and consistent high-level performance.

Reflecting on the nerve-wracking atmosphere during the France-England match, Wilkinson spoke candidly about the tension he felt watching from the stands, knowing the outcome depended heavily on Ramos’s penalty. Both Wilkinson and Welsh player Dan Biggar expressed respect for Ramos’s exceptional abilities.

Overall, Wilkinson’s analysis and praise highlight the strength, depth, and evolving talent of the French rugby team that clinched the Six Nations title, signaling a promising future for the sport in France.