Ranking the Greatest Moments in Six Nations History
The Six Nations has delivered some of the most unforgettable moments in rugby history, from shocking upsets to last-second heroics. As one of the most prestigious tournaments in the sport, it has produced legendary performances and dramatic finishes that will be remembered for generations.
We’ve taken a deep dive into these iconic moments and ranked them from 25 to 1.
25. Anthony Bouthier’s 90-Meter Spiral Kick – 2020
On his debut for France, full-back Anthony Bouthier delivered an astonishing 90-meter spiral kick against England. The ball bounced multiple times before landing near the England try line, stunning the crowd and instantly going viral.
24. England’s Grand Slam Video Leaked – 2011
England’s sponsors, Nike, prematurely released a video celebrating their Grand Slam triumph—before they had actually won it. Ireland spoiled the party with a dominant 24-8 victory in Dublin, leaving the RFU red-faced.
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23. Simon Zebo’s Football Trick Against Wales – 2013
Simon Zebo showcased his incredible skill by flicking the ball off his ankle while on the run, keeping an attacking move alive. Moments later, Ireland scored, making the sequence one of the most creative in Six Nations history.
22. Mauro Bergamasco’s Nightmare at Scrum-Half – 2009
Italy’s flanker Mauro Bergamasco was forced to play scrum-half due to injuries, and it proved disastrous. His misplaced passes and poor positioning directly led to three England tries before he was substituted at halftime.
21. Duncan Hodge Ends England’s Grand Slam Dreams – 2000
In torrential rain at Murrayfield, Duncan Hodge scored all of Scotland’s points in a stunning 19-13 victory over England. The win denied Clive Woodward’s team a Grand Slam and remains one of Scotland’s greatest Six Nations moments.
20. Wales Thrash Ireland in the Rain to Win Grand Slam – 2019
Wales delivered a commanding performance in a 25-7 victory over Ireland, securing their third Grand Slam under Warren Gatland. The win was capped off by a soaked but jubilant Cardiff crowd celebrating in the streets.
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19. Dan Cole Scores in England’s Grand Slam Win – 2016
England’s dominant 31-21 victory over France secured their first Grand Slam in 13 years. Prop Dan Cole surprisingly found himself on the scoresheet, bundling over the line for a rare Test try.
18. Italy’s First Six Nations Win – 2000
Italy silenced critics by defeating reigning champions Scotland 34-20 in their Six Nations debut. Diego Dominguez’s metronomic kicking and Alessandro Troncon’s leadership made it a landmark victory.
17. Jason Robinson’s Magical Sidestep Against France – 2002
England’s Jason Robinson produced an electrifying sidestep to weave through the French defense and score a breathtaking try. His incredible footwork left defenders grasping at thin air.
16. Ange Capuozzo’s Break Secures Italy’s First Win in Cardiff – 2022
With just minutes remaining, Italy’s Ange Capuozzo launched a dazzling solo run to set up a last-gasp try against Wales. It secured Italy’s first-ever Six Nations victory in Cardiff.
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15. Scotland’s Surprise Win Over France – 2006
France entered the match as Grand Slam favorites, but Scotland stunned them with a gritty 20-16 win at Murrayfield. Sean Lamont’s two tries and a resilient defense secured one of Scotland’s biggest upsets.
14. England’s Comeback Victory in Paris – 2000
England overcame a 10-0 deficit to defeat France 15-9, securing a crucial win on their way to a Grand Slam. A dominant second-half display turned the game in their favor.
13. Italy’s First Victory Over France – 2011
Italy shocked the rugby world by beating France 22-21 in Rome. Mirco Bergamasco’s precise kicking and a resolute defensive effort sealed one of Italy’s most famous wins.
12. France’s Grand Slam Triumph – 2010
Les Bleus went undefeated in the tournament, clinching their ninth Grand Slam with a hard-fought 12-10 victory over England in Paris.
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11. Brian O’Driscoll’s Hat-Trick in Paris – 2000
A young Brian O’Driscoll announced himself on the world stage by scoring three tries against France in a famous 27-25 win. It was Ireland’s first victory in Paris since 1972.
10. Wales Demolish England to Win the Championship – 2013
Wales delivered a crushing 30-3 victory over England, denying their rivals a Grand Slam while claiming the Six Nations title for themselves.
9. Scotland Break Their 38-Year Twickenham Curse – 2021
Scotland defeated England at Twickenham for the first time since 1983 with an 11-6 victory. The win marked a historic breakthrough in the Calcutta Cup rivalry.
8. France Wins Their First Grand Slam in 12 Years – 2022
A new generation of French stars, led by Antoine Dupont, ended the nation’s Six Nations drought with a dominant Grand Slam-winning campaign.
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7. England Refuse to Move for the Irish President – 2003
England captain Martin Johnson refused to switch sides for the pre-match introductions, forcing Ireland’s president to walk across the grass. England then dominated, winning 42-6 to complete their Grand Slam.
6. Ireland’s Grand Slam Secured by Ronan O’Gara’s Drop Goal – 2009
Ronan O’Gara’s late drop goal against Wales sealed Ireland’s first Grand Slam in 61 years. Stephen Jones’ last-minute penalty attempt fell short, confirming the historic win.
5. Finn Russell’s Miracle Pass Against England – 2018
Finn Russell delivered a breathtaking 30-meter floating pass to Huw Jones, igniting Scotland’s victory over England and securing the Calcutta Cup.
4. Wales’ First Grand Slam in 27 Years – 2005
A thrilling 32-20 victory over Ireland in Cardiff ended Wales’ long wait for a Grand Slam, sending the nation into wild celebrations.
3. Johnny Sexton’s Last-Minute Drop Goal Against France – 2018
With the clock in the red, Johnny Sexton slotted a dramatic 46-meter drop goal after 41 phases of play, securing a crucial Irish victory in Paris.
2. Wales’ Stunning Comeback Against Scotland – 2010
Down by 10 points with three minutes remaining, Wales scored twice to pull off one of the most unbelievable Six Nations comebacks.
1. Super, Super Saturday – 2015
The most chaotic and thrilling final day in Six Nations history saw 27 tries and 221 points scored across three matches. England came within one try of stealing the title, but Ireland prevailed in a finish for the ages.
