Women's Six Nations: Ireland Gear Up for France Showdown After Record Galway Win
Ireland's women's rugby team are preparing for a crucial Women's Six Nations clash against France in Clermont-Ferrand on Saturday, buoyed by a stunning 57-20 victory over Italy in front of a record home crowd of 9,206 at Dexcom Stadium in Galway.
The Ireland team, who have been in impressive form throughout the 2026 Women's Six Nations, will face a France side weakened by the loss of star centre Gabrielle Vernier, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament with a shoulder injury. Ireland's players have spoken of being motivated by a desire to avenge previous defeats to France, with the team's management declaring: "We owe them one."
Ireland's Form
Ireland's nine-try victory over Italy was a statement performance, with winger Beibhinn Parsons scoring a hat-trick to delight the record crowd in Galway. The result demonstrated Ireland's attacking ambition and depth of talent, with multiple players putting in standout performances across the park.
The record attendance at Dexcom Stadium reflects the growing popularity of women's rugby in Ireland, with the sport attracting increasing interest and investment at both club and international level. The Irish Rugby Football Union has been working to expand the women's game, and the packed stands in Galway are evidence that those efforts are bearing fruit.
The France Fixture
France, despite losing Vernier, remain formidable opponents with Grand Slam ambitions of their own. The match in Clermont-Ferrand on Saturday will be a significant test of Ireland's credentials as genuine title contenders. England, who beat Scotland 84-7 in their most recent fixture, remain the team to beat in the tournament.
The Women's Six Nations Round 3 fixtures also include England vs Wales at Bristol's Ashton Gate and Italy vs Scotland in Parma. For fixtures and results, see BBC Sport.
What's Next?
Ireland's performance against France on Saturday will be a key indicator of whether they can mount a serious challenge for the Women's Six Nations title. A victory in Clermont-Ferrand would send a powerful message to the rest of the tournament and set up a potentially decisive final round of fixtures.
