As the 2025 Women’s Six Nations Tournament kicks off this weekend, all eyes will be on the France women's rugby team, known popularly as the Bleues. Led by coaches Gaëlle Mignot and David Ortiz, they begin their campaign with a crucial match against Ireland at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 2 PM.
Last year, the French squad made an impressive run, finishing in second place in the tournament, just behind the dominant English team. This time around, the hope is to capture their seventh title in history, building on their previous wins in 2002, 2004, 2005, 2014, 2016, and 2018. With a strong squad involving notable players like Manae Feleu and Marine Menager, their ambitions remain high despite the tough competition they face.
The tournament format follows the same rules as its male counterpart: a victory garners 4 points, while a draw provides 2 points. If a team can score four tries in a match, they earn a bonus point. Teams that lose by seven points or fewer also receive a defensive bonus point. These rules add excitement and complexity to every match played throughout the competition.
The opening weekend of the tournament features a blend of matches, with France’s showdown against Ireland occurring alongside Scotland’s clash with Wales and England facing Italy the day after. The games promise intense action, with every team vying for a strong start to the tournament.
The competition is fierce, particularly from the English who are seen as the heavy favorites to win their 21st trophy. They’ve dominated the tournament in recent years, having clinched the title 10 times out of the last 14 years, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
France's struggles against England have been noted in the past; the Bleues have faced significant challenges related to their performances against the Red Roses. Notably, France has experienced 14 consecutive losses to England, a statistic that weighs heavily as they prepare to face off in the final of the tournament on April 26, 2025, at Twickenham.
As the teams gear up, each match plays a critical role in determining the overall standings and dynamics of the championship. The Bleues are not just looking to mirror their male counterparts, who triumphed earlier this month in their own Six Nations Tournament, but are also eager to shake up the current hierarchy in women's rugby.
Scheduled matches for France in the tournament include a critical face-off against Scotland on March 29 at La Rochelle and a home game against Wales on April 12 at Brive. The structure of the tournament places emphasis not just on skill, but also on strategic planning across these pivotal encounters.
With the World Cup looming, being held from August 22 to September 27, 2025, this Six Nations will serve as a vital opportunity for teams to solidify their strategies and gain valuable experience. The attitudes and performances in this tournament will undoubtedly impact preparations heading into the global stage.
In anticipation of an exhilarating month, fans are encouraged to tune in and support their teams, with coverage of every women’s match available on various platforms including France Télévisions and through commentated live streams on associated sports sites. The excitement surrounding the tournament illustrates a growing interest in women's rugby, underscoring its importance both on and off the pitch.
The first whistle will blow on Saturday, marking not just the beginning of a series of thrilling matches but also a chance for the players to showcase their talents on one of the biggest stages. Will the French team rise to the occasion and reclaim their place at the top of northern hemisphere rugby? Only time will tell as the tournament unfolds over the coming weeks.
