Jonny Wilkinson's Surprising Six Nations Prediction Sparks Rugby Debate
As the 2026 Six Nations Championship prepares to kick off next month, rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson has delivered a stunning forecast that has sent shockwaves through the sporting community. The former England fly-half has boldly predicted that Italy will clinch their first-ever Six Nations title, marking a potential historic moment for the tournament.
Wilkinson's Bold Backing for Italian Underdogs
Wilkinson's surprising prediction comes despite Italy's challenging history in the competition. Since joining the tournament in 2000, Italy has never claimed the overall championship, finishing last on eighteen occasions and receiving the famous wooden spoon. However, Wilkinson remains convinced of their potential.
"I think it could be Italy," Wilkinson stated. "They can be a dangerous outfit if you don't give them the respect they rightly deserve and they have shown that they can hang in there with the best of them."
This confidence follows Italy's improved performance in 2024, where they managed to avoid last place by defeating Scotland and Wales while securing a notable draw against France.
Colleagues Clash Over Tournament Favourites
Wilkinson's prediction stands in stark contrast to the views of his ITV colleagues and other rugby experts. Former England star Topsy Ojo has thrown his support behind France, predicting they will secure consecutive victories in the tournament.
"France - the defending champions have three home games in Paris, with two of those in the opening three rounds," Ojo explained. "A good start sets them up perfectly to not only go back to back, but chase down a grand slam clash with England on the final weekend."
Meanwhile, ex-England international Maggie Alphonsi believes the championship will be decided between France and England, basing her prediction on current form and performance trends.
England's Strong Case for Championship Glory
Alphonsi highlighted England's impressive recent record, noting their eleven-match winning streak that includes a victory over New Zealand. "England are on an eleven match winning run including beating New Zealand," she said. "England has gone up in the world rankings from seventh to third and they are a team with plenty of depth."
She further emphasised England's improved finishing ability and settled coaching team, suggesting these factors could prove decisive in the tournament's closing stages.
Welsh and Scottish Perspectives Add to Debate
Welsh legend Dan Biggar and former Scotland international Greg Laidlaw have both thrown their weight behind France's championship credentials. Biggar pointed to France's bench strength and the return of key players as crucial factors, while Laidlaw highlighted their favourable fixture schedule.
In a contrasting view, former Irish rugby legend Brian O'Driscoll has backed England to claim their first Six Nations title since 2020, citing their building momentum and consistent performances.
Tournament Structure and Opening Fixtures
The 2026 Six Nations begins with France taking on Ireland in the opening match, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely competitive tournament. Italy will face Scotland on the first Saturday, while England will conclude the opening weekend with a showdown against Wales at Twickenham Stadium.
This clash of predictions among rugby's most respected voices highlights the unpredictable nature of the upcoming championship and sets the stage for what could be one of the most memorable Six Nations tournaments in recent history.
