The 2025-26 rugby union season has been an absolute thriller, with matches that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come. It was a campaign that saw English teams and players dominate the headlines, making their mark on both domestic and international stages.
One contest that will be remembered as one of the greatest ever played was the Six Nations showdown between France and England at the Stade de France on 14th March. The 'Best Game Attended' according to a recent review by The Breakdown email newsletter, it was an electric atmosphere that witnessed France edge out England 48-46 in a try-fest for the ages! Louis Bielle-Biarrey's four tries and Thomas Ramos's last-gasp penalty will forever be etched in the memories of fans who witnessed this epic clash. Back home, Northampton Saints' 45-31 semi-final victory over Leicester Tigers and Bath's heart-stopping 43-41 win against Northampton in the Champions Cup were lauded for their intensity and atmosphere.
The English Red Roses were hailed as one of the 'Teams of the Year', a testament to their trailblazing World Cup success. They were joined by Bordeaux-Bègles, who impressed in the Champions Cup, and Northampton Saints, who consistently put on a show throughout the season. Individually, Louis Bielle-Biarrey was crowned Men's Player of the Season, while Meg Jones took home the Women's Player of the Season award – Ellie Kildunne and Sophie de Goode also got recognition.
The season delivered its fair share of 'Champagne Moments', with Rhys Carré's jaw-dropping solo try for Wales against Ireland and Finn Russell's quick-thinking kick-off that led to a crucial try for Darcy Graham, saving Scotland's blushes in Cardiff. Christ Tshiunza's sidestepping try for Exeter Chiefs in their semi-final win against Bath was another highlight. The coaching prowess of Phil Dowson and Sam Vesty at Northampton Saints earned them top billing among the season's coaching brains, alongside Rob Baxter of Exeter Chiefs and England women's coach John Mitchell.
The review also touched on areas for improvement within the sport, including concerns over access issues at the Stade de France for the Six Nations opener and the Rugby Football Union's policy of not selecting France-based players – particularly in a World Cup year. The introduction of a remote 'TMO hub' based in Basingstoke for the summer's second-tier Nations Cup and World U20 tournament signals a step towards a more technologically driven officiating future.
As we look ahead, the rugby community is eagerly awaiting resolutions on Welsh rugby, the anticipated full tour of South Africa by New Zealand, and Northampton Saints' potential draw against either Toulouse or Bordeaux at home in the Champions Cup pool stages. And will coaching titan Shaun Edwards finally reveal his next move after seven Six Nations titles under his belt? The world waits with bated breath!