In a significant match that could set the tone for their 2025 Women's Six Nations campaign, Ireland’s rugby team will square off against France today at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:00 PM GMT as the Irish aim to build on their recent progress and establish their presence in women's rugby.
The upcoming match represents a pivotal moment for the Irish side, which finished third last season in the Six Nations—an impressive leap from having received the Wooden Spoon just a year prior. Ireland's scrum-half Emily Lane emphasizes the drive behind their current momentum, expressing the desire to garner more support through compelling performances on the field. “Performances will bring supporters along on our green wave,” she stated, highlighting the importance of fan engagement as the team builds towards the Women’s Rugby World Cup in September.
Having enjoyed victories against Wales and Scotland during last year’s tournament, along with a stunning win over world champions New Zealand in Vancouver, the Irish team is more determined than ever. Lane pointed to her team's evolution over the last two seasons, noting, “France are really tough, but I think Ireland are a tough side too.” With this renewed confidence, they are prepared to shake off the historical disadvantage they hold against France, a team they have lost to 19 out of their last 22 encounters, including the last six by more than 20 points.
The match in Belfast will also mark a new chapter for Ireland with Amee-Leigh Costigan donning the captain's armband for the first time. With previous leadership experience in sevens, Costigan is keen to make a strong impact and lead her team against a formidable French side. “It's a huge honour; I'm so excited about it,” she told reporters. “We want this to be very competitive, to set teams up going into the World Cup.” A strong showing today could serve as an important statement of intent ahead of their World Cup clashes against tough opponents like Japan, New Zealand, and Spain.
In preparation for the match, Ireland has solidified their strategy and begun to develop a game plan to counter the experienced French team, who looks to retain their status after finishing runners-up in the Six Nations for the last five years. Under coaches Gaelle Mignot and David Ortiz, France aims for redemption after a disappointing WXV1 campaign last autumn, and they too seek to establish themselves as serious contenders for the World Cup.
The match not only sets the stage for Ireland’s aspirations in this Six Nations but also reflects a larger narrative of growth and ambition within women’s rugby. The Irish side, with their eyes firmly on the broader championship landscape, looks to harness the enthusiasm generated through their home matches. The team’s partnership with Aer Lingus, their official airline, underscores this sentiment of togetherness as they prepare for international challenges.
Aer Lingus has supported the Irish team throughout their past decade-long partnership with the IRFU. This commitment is especially relevant this year as the team seeks success in their away matches against Italy, Wales, and Scotland following their home opening today. As quoted by Susanne Carberry, Aer Lingus Chief Customer Officer, “At Aer Lingus, we are proud to bring #HomeAdvantage to the team’s away games for the 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations.”
Fans can tune into this highly anticipated opening match through free broadcasts available on platforms like BBC Two and RTÉ, as well as online streaming options. The Six Nations 2025 tournament runs from March 22 to April 26, and all participating nations will be able to access extensive coverage through their respective broadcasters all while showcasing the growth of women’s rugby on the global stage.
As the match kicks off at 1 PM, it is expected to not only draw considerable attention from local supporters but also from a global audience eager to witness how the evolving dynamics in women’s rugby manifest on the pitch. With Ireland vying for momentum and pride on their home turf, today's match against France could very well be a turning point in their journey through the upcoming championship.
