The pre-match pageantry in St. Denis seems to kick up a notch or two with every new season. Tonight they've broken out a giant mirrorball and a disco dancefloor tunnel to welcome the players. The boys have caught up for a last-minute chat on what to expect from an opening night with many questions:7.15pm: The first sign of spring? An unorthodox Thursday night kickoff of the 2026 edition of the Six Nations will do just fine as a distraction but it’s shaping to be one hell of an opening examination for Andy Farrell’s men. Ireland have arrived in the French capital minus fitness, form, fortune and, perhaps understandably, much in the way of wider confidence across the country.

Source: Irish Examiner February 05, 2026 19:26 UTC