Six Nations power rankings: Is England the frontrunner? Is Ireland experiencing a downturn?
The Six Nations has returned!
The teams have been announced, the competition lines are drawn, and international rugby is here once more. As always, there has been considerable movement and changes for all six nations since France claimed the trophy in March of the previous year.
Les Bleus have left out several prominent players from their roster, including standout winger Damian Penaud. Ireland is also missing some crucial athletes — at least initially — such as Andrew Porter, while Mack Hansen is sidelined for the entire season.
England’s coach Steve Borthwick has selected a stable 36-man squad in preparation for their opening match against Wales, with growing optimism among supporters that this could be their year.
As the kickoff approaches on February 5, here are ESPN’s pre-tournament power rankings, which will be revised following each round of matches.
1. France
France’s championship win last year alleviated some pressure from coach Fabian Galthié as he continues to guide a talented generation, but Les Bleus aim to achieve an even greater feat by securing a Grand Slam this year. Galthié will be pleased to see the return of star player Antoine Dupont, who missed a significant portion of last year — including the November internationals — due to an ACL injury sustained in the penultimate match of the 2025 Six Nations against Ireland.
The triumph of the previous year should have provided valuable experience and a confidence boost for the younger members of the squad. However, will they build on this success? Or might they risk becoming complacent in the wake of their achievements?
Only time will reveal the answer.
2. England
Steve Borthwick’s team has demonstrated notable progress over the past year, particularly in closing out tight matches and consistently defeating tier-one nations.
Following significant victories against Scotland and France last year — finishing second in the Six Nations — England completed a clean sweep of the November internationals with wins over Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Argentina.
At the conclusion of their autumn series, captain Maro Itoje expressed that he is “as excited as I’ve ever been” about this team … and expectations are elevated heading into the tournament.
Their emerging talents, such as Henry Pollock and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, now possess valuable international experience, fostering a sense of optimism around Twickenham.
3. Ireland
This year appears to be one of transition for Andy Farrell and Ireland, which, two years ahead of a World Cup, may not be a negative development.
First, Farrell is dealing with injuries. Star outside back Mack Hansen is out for the season following foot surgery in December, while Andrew Porter, Robbie Henshaw, and Paddy McCarthy are also facing various injuries in the short to mid-term.
The resurgence of Harry Byrne as a flyhalf option could complicate the competition for the No.10 jersey, as Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley strive to establish themselves as Farrell’s preferred choice. However, it seems Prendergast is close to securing that position.
There are several uncertainties for Ireland, but they remain capable of defeating any opponent on their day, and if they are not in contention themselves, they will be eager to disrupt any title or Grand Slam aspirations.
4. Scotland
It’s a case of a new year, yet the same questions for Scotland. Can they advance and become serious title contenders? Is time running out for coach Gregor Townsend? What is hindering them from becoming a consistent force?
They possess the talent, with numerous European, international, and British and Irish Lions stars among their ranks, to defeat anyone, but have struggled to secure victories. They have a favorable draw this year with home matches against England and France, and it seems necessary for them to win at least one of those to maintain some level of pressure.
The matchup against the aforementioned transitioning Ireland is shaping up to be an intriguing one in week five.
5. Italy
After showing promise in 2024 with victories over Scotland and Wales, a draw against France, and coming close against England, Italy struggled to build on that momentum in 2025. There seems to be an expanding gap between Italy and Wales compared to the other teams, with Scotland currently positioned between Ireland, England, and France.
The challenge for Italy is whether they can narrow the gap and pose a threat to the top teams. They have the talent, featuring many exciting players, but ultimately, results are what matter most.
6. Wales
Where to begin with Wales?
They will have Louis Rees-Zammit available for his first Six Nations since 2023. Tom Rogers’ hat trick against New Zealand — along with some of the team’s performances overall — provided a few moments of joy, but it will be a lengthy journey back for Steve Tandy’s squad.
It still seems unusual to state, but narrowing the gap on Italy is the primary goal for this team.
Tandy’s challenges are not solely his own, given broader issues within Welsh rugby, but he must quickly unify the team and ensure they buy into his system. A victory would provide a significant boost, but achieving that will be a considerable challenge at this point.
