Our special edition is packed with big-named interviews and features on key players – plus all the fixtures
The festive cheer has faded, the days are short, and the weather is dreary—but February brings the annual sporting tonic that is the Guinness Six Nations. This year’s edition, kicking off in 2026, has all the ingredients to be a classic, and our Six Nations preview is your perfect companion for every twist and turn. Order your copy now . It’s available at participating retailers across the UK and Ireland.
England: On the Rise Again
England, under Steve Borthwick, have rediscovered their swagger. After finishing 2025 with an impressive 11-match winning streak—including their first victory over New Zealand in six years—the Red Rose entered the Six Nations as genuine title contenders. The blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience has fans dreaming of a return to the glory days last seen under Eddie Jones.
France: Champions Reloaded
Standing in England’s way are reigning champions France, who shattered the record for tries scored in a single tournament last year. Head coach Fabien Galthié has made bold moves, dropping stalwarts Damian Penaud, Gaël Fickou, and Grégory Alldritt after a mixed November. Yet, with the mercurial Antoine Dupont back in the fold, Les Bleus remain a formidable force. The prospect of a title-deciding clash between France and England on the final day is mouth-watering.
Ireland: At a Crossroads
Andy Farrell returns from his Lions duties to lead Ireland, who are looking to bounce back from a third-place finish in 2025. Was last year a mere hiccup, or does the team need a deeper overhaul? The coming weeks will provide the answer as Ireland aim to reassert themselves among Europe’s elite.
Scotland: Talent in Search of Triumph
Gregor Townsend, the longest-serving coach among tier one nations, leads a Scotland side brimming with flair—led by the irrepressible Finn Russell—but short on silverware. Their campaign opens in Rome, a fixture that’s no longer the formality it once was, especially after a shock defeat there two years ago.
Italy: Dark Horses with Bite
Italy’s resurgence under Gonzalo Quesada has caught the rugby world’s attention, with South Africa’s Rassie Erasmus tipping them for a top-half finish—a feat that would be their best ever. Tommaso Menoncello, arguably one of the tournament’s top talents, gives the Azzurri hope of upsetting the established order.
Wales: Challenging Times Ahead
For Wales, the outlook is less rosy. With Jac Morgan sidelined and Steve Tandy taking the reins for his first Six Nations, the squad looks to be in a rebuilding phase. Even with the return of Louis Rees-Zammit from his NFL adventure, Wales face an uphill battle to secure their first tournament win since 2023.
Your Complete Six Nations Guide
This Six Nations special edition is packed with exclusive interviews, in-depth features on key players, and expert analysis of every team. We break down the fixtures game-by-game, spotlight future stars, and bring you insights from rugby legends. Plus, we look ahead to the Women’s Six Nations, where England will aim to build on their stunning World Cup triumph.
Don’t miss a moment of the action—order your copy of the Six Nations preview HERE and join us for what promises to be a tournament for the ages. Available to buy at participating retailers. Online postage and packaging costs apply.