France Clinches Six Nations Title with Dramatic Last-Minute Victory Over England

Paris – France secured their second consecutive Six Nations title with a thrilling 48-46 victory over England on Sunday, March 14, 2026. The match, a high-scoring affair, came down to a last-gasp penalty kick by Thomas Ramos, denying Ireland the championship.

A See-Sawing Contest

The match was a captivating back-and-forth battle, with both sides showcasing attacking prowess. England, despite a disappointing tournament pushed France to the limit. Tommy Freeman’s 76th-minute try briefly put England ahead, but a subsequent penalty gave Ramos the opportunity to seal the win for France.

Ramos Holds His Nerve

With the championship on the line, Ramos calmly slotted the penalty kick, securing a 48-46 victory for the hosts. This win marks France’s first back-to-back Six Nations titles since 2007. The Guardian reported on the dramatic finish.

Bielle-Biarrey Shines

Louis Bielle-Biarrey was a standout performer for France, scoring four tries in the match. His performance condemned England to four losses in the same Six Nations championship for the first time in 50 years.

England’s Disappointment

Despite the narrow defeat, England head coach Steve Borthwick acknowledged the team’s disappointment. England’s campaign has been statistically their worst since the Five Nations became Six, though the team showed resilience in a closely contested match. BBC Sport provided reaction from Borthwick.

Ireland’s Hopes Dashed

The result also dashed Ireland’s hopes of winning the championship. Ireland needed an England victory to have a chance of securing the title, but France’s win meant they fell short.

Match Details

France: Ramos; Attissogbe, Barassi, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey; Jalibert, Dupont (capt); Gros, Marchand, Aldegheri, Flament, Meafou, Cros, Matiu, Ollivon.

England: Daly; Roebuck, Freeman, S Atkinson, Murley; F Smith, Spencer; Genge, George, Heyes, Itoje (capt), Coles, Chessum, Pepper, Earl

Looking Ahead

France will celebrate their Six Nations triumph, while England will look to regroup, and rebuild. The 2027 Six Nations promises to be another exciting chapter in this historic tournament.