By The 2026 Six Nations begins with one of rugby’s biggest rivalries. Ireland face France in Paris on Thursday night. The match opens the tournament and sets the tone for weeks ahead. On Tuesday morning, Ireland head coach Andy Farrell confirmed his matchday squad.
The headline decision was clear. Sam Prendergast will start at fly-half. He takes the number 10 jersey for Ireland’s opening game of the championship. It is a major call in a season filled with pressure and expectation.
This match matters more than most openers. France are the reigning champions. Ireland arrive with injuries, changes, and growing questions. The team selection shows trust in youth, balance in the pack, and belief in new combinations.
This article breaks down the Ireland team announcement, key selection calls, tactical meaning, and the wider Six Nations context.
Sam Prendergast Starts at Fly-Half
Sam Prendergast has been named as Ireland’s starting fly-half for the Six Nations opener. The decision places heavy responsibility on the young Leinster player. The number 10 role controls pace, shape, and direction. It is one of the hardest jobs on the field.
Andy Farrell’s choice signals trust. Prendergast has impressed at club level with calm control and sharp decision making. Starting him in Paris is a bold move. The Stade de France is not a gentle place for a first major test.
Sam will partner Jamison Gibson-Park at scrum-half. The pairing combines speed and control. Gibson-Park’s quick service should help Prendergast settle early. Their link will shape Ireland’s attacking rhythm.
This start also carries personal meaning. Sam’s older brother, Cian Prendergast, starts in the back row. It is the first time the brothers will start together for Ireland.
Ireland’s Starting XV for the France Match
Ireland’s starting team reflects both necessity and intent. Injuries and suspension forced some changes. Others were chosen on form and balance.
Jamie Osborne starts at fullback. It is his first game since a shoulder injury in November. His return brings calm positioning and strong defense. On the wings, Tommy O’Brien and Jacob Stockdale offer pace and aerial strength.
The midfield pairing features Garry Ringrose and Stuart McCloskey. Ringrose brings sharp reads and line speed. McCloskey adds power and direct running. Together, they balance control and force.
Up front, Jeremy Loughman, Dan Sheehan, and Thomas Clarkson form the front row. Sheehan remains central to Ireland’s attack from set pieces. Clarkson steps in due to injuries to senior props.
The second row includes Joe McCarthy and Tadhg Beirne. McCarthy returns after missing the November tests. Beirne offers lineout skill and breakdown threat.
The back row is led by captain Caelan Doris. He is joined by Josh van der Flier and Cian Prendergast. The trio combines work rate, tackling, and carrying power.
Ireland Starting XV
Jamie Osborne; Tommy O’Brien, Garry Ringrose, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale; Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park; Jeremy Loughman, Dan Sheehan, Thomas Clarkson; Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne; Cian Prendergast, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (capt).
Bench Selection and Impact Options
Ireland’s replacements include experience and flexibility. Rónan Kelleher covers hooker and brings impact late in games. Michael Milne and Finlay Bealham provide cover in the front row.
James Ryan is named on the bench after returning from injury. His presence adds leadership and lineout strength. Jack Conan and Nick Timoney offer energy in the back row.
Craig Casey and Jack Crowley cover the backline. Crowley’s inclusion gives Ireland a second playmaker option. Casey’s tempo can lift the pace in the final quarter.
The bench shape reflects a 6-2 split. This shows Ireland expect a physical contest. It also highlights confidence in the starting backline.
Ireland Replacements
Rónan Kelleher, Michael Milne, Finlay Bealham, James Ryan, Jack Conan, Nick Timoney, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley.
Injuries and Forced Changes
Several key players miss this opener. Andrew Porter, Tadhg Furlong, and Paddy McCarthy are unavailable. Their absence reshapes the front row. Jeremy Loughman and Thomas Clarkson step into starting roles.
Bundee Aki is suspended and misses out. Mack Hansen is injured. These absences open space for McCloskey and Osborne to return.
Hugo Keenan’s tournament involvement remains uncertain due to a thumb injury. His absence affects Ireland’s backfield security.
Andy Farrell acknowledged these challenges before the match. He noted strong preparation and commitment from the squad. The training camp in Portugal helped build cohesion despite changes.
A New Era Feel for Ireland
This selection reflects a shift. Ireland are mid-cycle between World Cups. Some senior figures remain. Others are stepping back. Younger players now carry greater weight.
Sam Prendergast’s start is a clear example. So is Thomas Clarkson’s inclusion. Joe McCarthy’s return adds edge but also shows the need for fresh legs.
Farrell’s seventh Six Nations campaign may be his hardest yet. Expectations remain high. Depth is being tested. Balance must be found quickly.
This opener against France will show where Ireland truly stand.
France Await Their Team Announcement
France are yet to name their matchday 23. Head coach Fabien Galthié is expected to announce his side at 10am. Anticipation remains high.
One confirmed absence is Uini Atonio. The veteran prop was forced to retire after suffering a heart attack. His loss is deeply felt within French rugby.
France enter the tournament as defending champions. They dominated the last four seasons. Their power, speed, and depth make them favorites again.
Ireland know the scale of the challenge. Playing away in Paris adds another layer of difficulty.
A Rivalry Shaped by Recent History
Ireland and France have defined the Six Nations in recent years. Both teams won titles. Both pushed standards higher.
Last year’s meeting was intense and dramatic. French captain Antoine Dupont suffered a knee injury that ended his tournament. He later described the incident as an accident.
Dupont remains central to France’s hopes. His influence stretches across every phase. Ireland will plan carefully around his presence.
Matches between these teams rarely lack tension. This opener promises the same.
The New Solidarity Trophy
This year introduces a new prize. The Solidarity, or Solidarité, Trophy will be awarded to the winner of Ireland v France each year. It celebrates rivalry and shared respect.
The trophy will also be used in the Women’s Six Nations. Ireland face France away on April 25.
The trophy was unveiled at the Aviva Stadium. It marks cooperation beyond competition. On the field, intensity remains unchanged.
Andy Farrell’s View Ahead of the Match
Andy Farrell spoke about preparation and focus. He praised the squad’s effort since linking up. He highlighted the value of the Portugal camp.
He described the Six Nations as a special competition. He noted the challenge of playing in Paris. He also praised Irish supporters who travel in large numbers.
Farrell knows the pressure. France are strong. Ireland are evolving. The opening result could shape the entire campaign.
Six Nations Context and Stakes
The 2026 Six Nations runs over six weeks. Ireland open away to France. They then host Italy, travel to England, host Wales, and finish against Scotland.
France won last year’s title. England finished second. Ireland placed third despite four wins. Fine margins decided the table.
This opener carries weight. A win would lift belief. A loss would demand fast recovery.
For Sam Prendergast, the stage could not be larger.
Tactical Focus for Ireland
Ireland will aim to control territory early. Kicking accuracy will matter. Discipline will be vital.
The pack must hold firm at scrum and lineout. France thrive on turnover ball and broken play. Ireland must stay organized.
Prendergast’s decision making will guide tempo. Gibson-Park’s speed can stretch French defense. Doris and van der Flier must win collisions.
Defense in the wide channels will be tested. Stockdale and O’Brien face heavy aerial pressure.
What This Match Means for Sam Prendergast
Starting at 10 in Paris defines careers. The role demands calm under pressure. Mistakes get punished fast.
Prendergast has shown maturity beyond his age. This match will test it fully. His kicking, passing, and game sense will be watched closely.
Playing alongside his brother adds emotion. Professional focus must remain sharp.
A strong showing could cement his place. A tough night will still be part of growth.
