England extend world-record winning streak to 38 with eighth consecutive Six Nations title
A record home crowd of 35,000 witnessed England overcome an early deficit to defeat France 43-28, cementing their dominance in women’s rugby union and extending their unbeaten run in the championship since 2018.
England have secured a record eighth consecutive Women’s Six Nations title and their fifth successive Grand Slam, defeating host nation France 43-28 at Stade Atlantique in Bordeaux on Sunday. The victory extends England’s world-record Test winning run to 38 matches, further consolidating their status as the dominant force in international rugby union.
France entered the match unbeaten and backed by the largest home crowd in the competition’s history, aiming to challenge England’s relentless dominance. Supported by 35,000 spectators, the home side started strongly, leading 7-0 after 20 minutes thanks to a length-of-the-field try by Pauline Bourdon Sansus. However, England seized control in the second quarter, capitalising on French errors to establish a 26-7 halftime lead through tries from Sarah Bern, Ellie Kildunne, and Jess Breach.
England’s discipline and execution proved decisive as they weathered a brief resurgence from France in the second half. Although Anais Grando and a second try from Bourdon Sansus reduced the deficit to eight points with 20 minutes remaining, the visitors regained control. A sparkling attacking move saw Breach score her second try, effectively ending France’s hopes of a comeback. The momentum shifted further when French scrumhalf Alexandra Chambon was sin-binned for a high tackle, allowing England to extend their advantage. Amy Cokayne added a sixth try, converted by Zoe Harrison, who kicked five conversions and a penalty in total.
The result confirms England’s supremacy in the standings, finishing with 28 points derived from five bonus-point wins and Grand Slam points. France finished second with 21 points, marking their seventh consecutive year in the runner-up position. The victory follows a narrow one-point defeat for France at Twickenham a year prior, underscoring the high stakes of this fixture. England have now won 99 of their last 103 games and have not lost a Six Nations match since 2018.
Elsewhere on Sunday, Ireland secured third place with a comprehensive 54-5 victory over Scotland in Dublin, played in front of a record crowd for the nation. Italy claimed fourth position by defeating Wales 43-24 in Cardiff. Scotland finished with five points, while Wales ended the tournament with three points after losing all five of their matches.
