Louis Bielle-Biarrey of France scores a try during the Six Nations match against Italy in Lille, France, on Sunday. Photograph: Christophe Petit Tesson/EPASix Nations: France 33 Italy 8France pulled clear at the top of the Six Nations table and kept their grand slam ambitions on track with a hard-fought victory against Italy on Sunday. France were now an entirely different beast, as they showed their cross-Alpine neighbours in the Rome drubbing last year. Italy, however, were also riding high after two impressive opening displays in the tournament this year. Italy's Riccardo Favretto catches a lineout ball during the Six Nations match against France on Sunday.

Source: The Irish Times February 22, 2026 20:53 UTC