France secure second consecutive Six Nations title by edging England in thrilling finish
France won their second consecutive Six Nations title by beating England (48-46) in a thrilling match on Saturday night.
Marcellus, a little boy just over two years old, is particularly happy. On the lawn of the Stade de France, the child runs around, wearing a jersey that is too big for him, heading towards his father Emmanuel Meafou. The massive second-row forward grabs him and takes him towards the podium for the awards ceremony. The French team is crowned, just like last year, it’s time to lift the Six Nations trophy.
A few minutes earlier, the French bench and its surroundings were filled with hugs and cuddles after Thomas Ramos’ incredible winning penalty, the ultimate twist of this France-England (48-46) completely crazy match. Stepping onto the field, attacking coach Patrick Arlettaz embraces his winger Théo Attissogbe. Around the field, the staff congratulates each other, even the Raid police officers in charge of the security of the French team can’t hide their happiness. “It’s even better when it’s close like this,” smiles French XV legend Philippe Sella in the stands.
With the cup in his hands, Antoine Dupont savors the moment. One year ago, he lifted the trophy on crutches, a week after his cruciate ligament rupture suffered in Ireland. After retrieving it from his prop Jean-Baptiste Gros, the French captain runs with the trophy to the bottom of the presidential stand. Fans in the stands try to touch the coveted metal.
Barefoot Dupont, Ollivon’s emotion
Toto, barefoot with a commemorative t-shirt, is at the press conference. He insists, “We must appreciate the chance we have to win again today. We must be proud. Some savor it because it’s the first, and others savor it as if it were.” Charles Ollivon, with a medal around his neck, shares his emotions. This historic player from the Galthié era had never won the Six Nations. Injuries prevented him from playing in the Grand Slam in 2022 and repeated in the 2025 edition. “In the past, I would wonder: why am I injured and not playing when the team wins? Now, I can enjoy this with my son. And in the end, I wouldn’t change a thing. Not for anything in the world.”
Music escapes from a corridor at the Stade de France. With the team’s equipment supplier’s sunglasses on their heads, the French XV players continue to emerge from the locker room. Jalibert describes the atmosphere within these four walls, “It was euphoric. Everyone was happy: music, a little drink.”
All they can think about is continuing to celebrate this title, among themselves and with their loved ones. Theo Attissogbe smiles, “That will be the main activity. In the locker room, it was very festive as you can imagine. I hope it continues as long as possible. The winger disappears. The night calls.
