The 2025-26 rugby union season was a thrilling ride, packed with memorable moments, stellar performances, and unexpected twists. From nail-biting matches to record-breaking achievements, it was a season that showcased the very best of the sport. Here's a deep dive into the highlights, the players who stood out, and the stories that captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
The Season's Best Games
The season was filled with breathtaking encounters, but three games truly stood out:
France vs. England (March 14th): A thrilling Six Nations encounter where France emerged victorious with a last-gasp penalty. With 13 tries, including four from Louis Bielle-Biarrey, this game was a spectacle of attacking rugby. It was a testament to the beauty of the sport, where the outcome hung in the balance until the final moments.
Northampton vs. Leicester (June 12th): The Prem semi-final was a cracker, with Northampton emerging victorious. The atmosphere was electric, and George Furbank's performance was a highlight. This game showcased the intensity and skill that make rugby so captivating.
Bath vs. Northampton (April 10th): Despite a brilliant start from Northampton, Bath secured their place in the Champions Cup semi-finals. This game demonstrated the fine margins between victory and defeat in rugby.
Teams of the Year
- Bordeaux-Bègles: Dominating in the Champions Cup, not the Top 14, they were a force to be reckoned with.
- England's Red Roses: Their World Cup victory was a testament to their skill and determination.
- Northampton Saints: A consistent and entertaining team, they were worthy Prem champions.
Champagne Moments
- Rhys Carré's Solo Try for Wales: A moment of individual brilliance against Ireland.
- Finn Russell's Quick-Thinking Kick-Off: A game-saving moment for Scotland against Wales.
- Christ Tshiunza's Sidestepping Try: A highlight from Exeter Chiefs' semi-final win over Bath.
Top Coaching Brains
- Phil Dowson and Sam Vesty (Northampton): Their strategic brilliance was on full display.
- Rob Baxter (Exeter Chiefs): His leadership and tactical prowess were key to Exeter's success.
- John Mitchell (England Women) and Noel McNamara (Bordeaux Attack Coach): Their contributions were instrumental in their respective teams' achievements.
Men's Players of the Season
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey: A standout performer with his try-scoring prowess.
- Maxime Lucu: A consistent and influential player.
- Tom and Jack Willis, Matthieu Jalibert: A trio of versatile and talented players.
Most Consistent Prem Players
- Tom Willis: A pillar of consistency and reliability.
- Henry Slade: A versatile player who made a significant impact.
- Alex Coles and Tommy Freeman: A dynamic duo who brought energy and skill.
Women's Players of the Season
- Meg Jones: A standout performer in the women's game.
- Ellie Kildunne: A consistent and influential player.
- Sophie de Goode: Her contributions were invaluable.
Best Matchday Experience
- France vs. England, Paris: The pre-match son et lumière was a spectacle in itself, enhancing the overall experience.
- Champions Cup Semi-Final, Bordeaux-Bègles vs. Bath: A must-visit destination for rugby enthusiasts.
- Champions Cup Final, Bordeaux-Bègles vs. Leinster: A rugby experience with a twist, offering cheesecake and tortillas alongside the action.
- Women's World Cup Final, London: A high-water mark for women's rugby, showcasing its growth and potential.
Best Media Operation
Northampton Saints: Their media operations were a model of excellence.
Best Interviewee
Joe Heyes (Leicester and England): A top-notch interviewee who shared insightful perspectives.
Good to See
- The return of creative running fly-halves, a refreshing change of pace.
- Smiling faces at Exeter Chiefs, both on and off the field, a positive sign for the club.
- Efforts to promote England's second-tier Champ, highlighting the talent beyond the Prem.
Could Do Better
- Addressing the challenges of stadium access and inclusivity, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
- Recognizing the importance of player diversity, especially in World Cup years.
- Embracing technological advancements like the remote TMO hub, a step towards improved decision-making.
Most Inspirational Rugby People
- Lewis Moody, Ed Slater, and Matt Hampson: Their contributions to the sport's growth and development were invaluable.
Gone but Not Forgotten
A tribute to the legendary figures who shaped the sport, including Warren Abrahams, Shane Christie, and many more.
Looking Forward
- Welsh rugby's quest for unity and a collective vision.
- The upcoming South Africa tour by New Zealand, a clash of titans.
- Northampton Saints' potential Champions Cup pool stage matches against Toulouse or Bordeaux.
- The future of Shaun Edwards, a Six Nations icon.
The Season in Quotes
- Abbie Ward on the growth of women's rugby: 'If you’d told me then that in 2025 I would be playing in a World Cup final at a sold-out Twickenham, I could not even have contemplated that.'
- John Mitchell on the World Cup: 'It didn’t just raise the bar, it has gone stratospheric, broken records, changed perceptions and showcased the very best of our sport and our players.'
- Martin Johnson on France's style: 'You watch the way the French play and I think they’re changing the game a little bit... Is something changing there?'
- RFU statement on England's Six Nations performance: 'England’s underperformance across the Six Nations was not the result of a singular failure or issue.'
- Dewi Lake on Wales' defeat to England: 'We let ourselves down, we let people down. There is no other way to say it – we’re massively disappointed with what we put on the field today.'
- Steve Borthwick on Maro Itoje's pre-game words: 'I heard him address the team this morning. He talked about when the team were 14- or 15-year-old boys, dreaming of playing here against teams like New Zealand. The boys took those dreams on to the pitch today and they were outstanding.'
- Itoje on Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments: 'I was born in this country of Nigerian descent and I think it’s ridiculous to say Great Britain has been colonised by immigrants because that is so far from the truth. I think it’s wrong.'
- Tony Rowe on the prospect of US investment: 'We’ve got to wake up and smell the coffee. Whether you like it or not professional sport is all about money. We need money to survive.'
- Schalk Burger on Henry Pollock: 'He’s a TikTok dancer and he plays a little bit of rugby on the weekend. His main gig is to be on social media.'
- Alfie Barbeary on post-Prem celebrations: 'When I came back from holiday last summer I’d walk down the street in Bath and nine or 10 people would say: ‘Good to see you’ve got your clothes back on.'
- Joe Heyes on being mistaken for Joe Marler: 'She thought I was Joe Marler, which was quite upsetting. She said: ‘You’re awfully funny on TV.'
- Freddie Steward on a law change: 'A law change where they have to make a genuine attempt to catch the ball would be really positive. It probably lacks a bit of skill just being able to throw your body in and flail an arm.'
- Craig Doyle on Geoff Parling: 'Geoff’s not happy about that.'
- Sally Pettipher on Cornish Pirates' investment: 'You wouldn’t have to spend much money to own a fantastic piece of olde England.'
- Kenn Moritz on the impact of a Guardian article: 'Without that article I wouldn’t have called. It gave me an insight into what was going on in English rugby and piqued my interest.'
Memory Lane
- 24 June 1995: Ellis Park, a match that transcended sport, where South Africa's unity was celebrated, and Nelson Mandela presented the trophy to Francois Pienaar.
Looking Ahead
The future of rugby is bright, with exciting developments and challenges on the horizon. As the sport continues to evolve, it promises to deliver more thrilling moments and captivating stories.
