Six Nations 2026 honors: Highlight, try, and squad of the competition
The Six Nations was filled with intense drama and excitement throughout its five rounds, making it difficult to believe that just over a month has elapsed since the first round, when France overwhelmed Ireland and England comfortably defeated Wales.
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Since that time, Ireland has remained unbeaten while England has suffered four consecutive losses, and Wales has also ended a 15-match losing streak in the tournament.
ESPN reflects on the tournament with its end-of-event awards.
Try of the tournament:
Rhys Carre (Wales vs. Ireland)
The image of Carre picking up the ball from 30 meters out and skillfully evading four Irish defenders with an infectious smile to score one of the finest tries ever by a prop will be etched in Six Nations history. This achievement is further highlighted by the fact that Carre has been dropped twice by different coaches in the past.
He has become emblematic of what this Welsh team aspires to be: resilient, ready for a challenge, and cherished by the Welsh supporters. While the tournament will be remembered by Welsh fans for their victory over Italy, Carre’s try stands out as a significant moment that revitalized Welsh rugby.
Honourable mention: Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France vs. Ireland)
A brilliant display of Antoine Dupont/LBB creativity, complemented by a touch of good fortune. Dupont’s ambitious chip over the ruck from within his own half for Thomas Ramos to pursue was rewarded by France’s boldness.
The ball fell to Bielle-Biarrey, who sprinted down the left wing to score, capping off a truly remarkable play, reminiscent of the exciting moments France delivered throughout the tournament.
Moment of the tournament
Italy defeats England for the first time ever
History, emotion, and drama … This match had it all. England, eager to avoid a third consecutive defeat and with their campaign spiraling, appeared to be on course for a hard-fought victory at the Stadio Olimpico, inching toward a win that would alleviate the pressure surrounding the team and head coach Steve Borthwick.
However, with about 20 minutes remaining, Italy decided enough was enough and responded decisively. England lost Sam Underhill to the sin bin, and Paolo Garbisi kicked two penalties to narrow the gap to two points, followed by Maro Itoje joining Underhill on the sidelines.
As the second half progressed, the anticipation that Italy would finally secure the elusive victory intensified, culminating in Leonardo Marin sealing the win with a breakaway try with less than ten minutes remaining. It was truly one of the memorable moments of the Six Nations, a rarity that serves as a reminder of why rugby is such an exhilarating sport to follow.
Honourable mention: Wales defeats Italy, ending a three-year winless streak.
A result that, outside of Wales, went somewhat unnoticed due to the turmoil in Paris and the title race coming down to the wire, but Wales’ three years of struggle and disappointment finally concluded with their 31-17 victory over Italy in Cardiff. A campaign that began with heavy losses to England and France turned around with strong performances against Scotland and Ireland.
Steve Tandy and his team finally put an end to the humiliations, even if the win didn’t come easily. Then, with nothing to lose and everything to gain, the players rose to the occasion. Welsh fans, who had supported their team through what could be considered the darkest times in their rugby history, were rewarded with a win and a performance to be proud of.
Player of the tournament
Louis Bielle-Biarrey
Nine tries, with at least one in each match for the second consecutive year and four in a single game—the first French player to achieve this since World War II—has been an impressive feat from the young winger.
At just 22 years old, he would fit seamlessly into any team globally at this moment. Moreover, his teammates understand precisely what he wants and when he wants it. His partnerships with Thomas Ramos, Dupont, and fellow winger Theo Attissogbe, whom he assisted for a stunning try against Scotland, are a delight to witness. Speed, athleticism, and skill … LBB possesses it all.
Honourable mention: Stuart McCloskey
Any opportunity to acknowledge “the Irish fridge” is warranted; McCloskey has been a standout this year. Called up with Bundee Aki serving a suspension in the first three rounds, McCloskey seized his chance and excelled. With 74 carries, six try assists, eight offloads, eight turnovers won, and 105 post-contact meters—the second highest in the tournament—Andy Farrell has a valuable player at his disposal.
Team of the tournament:
Forwards: Both props Danilo Fischetti of Italy and England’s Joe Heyes deserve recognition, but there is no doubt that Dan Sheehan is one of, if not the best hooker in the world.
Given the current trend of player interchangeability in the second and back rows, several strong players were overlooked. Tadgh Beirne has been exceptional for Ireland, while his captain Caelan Doris is unfortunate to miss out. However, Ben Earl has consistently posed a threat in an England side that has faced challenges.
Backs: No Antoine Dupont?! The French captain may be a victim of his own exceptionally high standards, and it’s surprising to note that Jamison Gibson-Park was dropped for the Italy match, but that decision ultimately benefited him. The Ireland scrum-half was outstanding in the last three Tests.
A number of players, including Finn Russell, Ben White, and Sione Tuipulotu from Scotland, as well as Italy’s Ignacio Brex, would have been fully deserving of a place as well.
It is uncommon for a winger who scores five tries to be excluded from a team like this, but while Theo Attissogbe has made a smooth transition to international rugby, it is difficult to overlook Rob Baloucoune, who has been exceptional for Ireland.
