Emerald challenge: Can Ireland reclaim Six Nations crown?

The 2026 Six Nations Championship promises to take on greater significance for Andy Farrell's team than other tournaments. Following their disappointment in the previous edition, where they finished third, it is time for them to make a comeback. The squad includes many of the players who won the Six Nations Championship in 2023 and 2024, so you can be sure that this team will give it their all.

How the schedule shapes up

Everything begins on February 5 with an away match against France, the reigning champions. Victory in such a clash would give Ireland a significant boost and establish them as the tournament’s leading

contenders, while defeat would leave them playing catch-up from the very start.

After their trip to France, the team will return home to Aviva Stadium on February 14. The game against Italy on Valentine's Day should be a special treat for the fans. There won't be much time to chill out as Ireland will be heading to Twickenham in London just a week later, on February 21.

The tournament final phase will take place on the home pitch. On March 6, there will be a clash with Wales, followed by a showdown with Scotland on March 14.

Who could make a difference

First and foremost is Caelan Doris – team captain, one of the best number eights in the world, and a two-time member of the symbolic selection of the year. The team will need his leadership skills.

Sam Prendergast was probably the team's best player in last season's Six Nations Championship. He pushed Jack Crowley out of the starting lineup, and his performance against Scotland was especially memorable.

James Lowe is a winger who gives his all in every game and then some. Born in New Zealand, he has long since become one of our own. At this point, it's impossible to imagine the national team without the 33-year-old Lowe.

According to the 1xBet analysts, experts from a legal bookmaker in Ireland, the odds for the tournament winner are set as follows:

France: 3/2

England: 7/2

Ireland: 14/1

Scotland: 33/1

Italy: 99/1

Wales: 99/1

However, much could change after the opening match of this tournament in Paris. For those who believe in our team, this is the perfect opportunity to earn with 1xBet. You can achieve more with a reliable bookmaker right from the start. When registering on the website, fill in your details, make a deposit of €10 or more, and receive three free bets of €10 each!

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