Bielle-Biarrey and France power past Italy to keep Six Nations grand slam hopes alive

Guardian Sport

by Raphaël Jucobin at the Stade Pierre Mauroy

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

France continued their dominance in the Six Nations Championship with a decisive 33-8 victory over Italy in Lille on Sunday. This hard-fought win not only solidified their position at the top of the table but also kept their grand slam ambitions alive, as they aim to secure wins against all five opponents in the tournament. The game was marked by Italy's unfinished business from a similar encounter two years ago, where France narrowly escaped with a draw despite being outplayed. This time, however, Les Bleus showcased a rejuvenated performance, turning their past struggles into a period of impressive resurgence. The match saw France take control early on, with their powerful forwards dictating play and their backline delivering clinical finishes. Italy fought valiantly but struggled to contain France's attacking prowess, particularly the form of their star winger, who notched another try in his eighth consecutive appearance. This streak highlights France's current strength in depth and their ability to consistently deliver performances across the board. France's victory is a testament to their ability to bounce back from past defeats and rebuild their team with renewed vigor. The win over Italy serves as a statement of intent, signaling their determination to challenge for the grand slam. For sports fans following the Six Nations, this match underscores the unpredictable nature of the tournament and the high stakes involved in each encounter. With France leading the pack and other teams close behind, the competition remains fierce, making every game a potential turning point in the race for supremacy.

Verticals

sports

Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/22/2026