France vs Italy: Les Bleus Target Third Consecutive Win in Lille Clash
LILLE, 21 February 2026 – France head coach Fabien Galthié has called for focus as his side prepares to host Italy at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy this Sunday. Following dominant victories over Ireland and Wales, the French squad arrives in Lille looking to maintain their momentum in the third round of the 2026 Guinness Men’s Six Nations.
Team News: Galthié Refreshes the Second Row
Fabien Galthié has opted for stability in his matchday squad, making only two changes to the starting XV that defeated Wales 54-12 in Cardiff. The Toulouse locking duo of Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou return to the second row, replacing Charles Ollivon and Mickael Guillard. The rest of the pack remains unchanged, with the coaching staff prioritising “freshness” and competition within the squad.
Italy, meanwhile, receive a significant boost with the return of star full-back Ange Capuozzo. The counter-attacking specialist missed recent action due to injury but is set to start in Lille. However, the Azzurri remain without the influential Juan Ignacio Brex. Italy captain Michele Lamaro will lead a side that Galthié has described as a “success story,” warning that the visitors are capable of causing an upset if France loses discipline.
Head-to-Head: A History of French Dominance
Historically, France has held a firm grip on this fixture. Out of 50 Test matches contested between the two nations, France has secured 46 victories. Italy’s last taste of success against Les Bleus in the Six Nations came in 2013, though they famously secured a 13-13 draw during their last visit to French soil in 2024.
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Test Matches | 50 |
| France Wins | 46 |
| Italy Wins | 3 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Last Meeting (2025) | Italy 24-73 France |
Match Logistics and Conditions
The match is scheduled to kick off at 16:10 on Sunday, 22 February 2026. Tournament organisers have confirmed that the retractable roof at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy will be closed for the encounter, ensuring a dry surface and a high-intensity atmosphere regardless of the local weather in Villeneuve-d’Ascq. For viewers in France, the match will be broadcast live on France 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the France vs Italy match being played?
The match will take place at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille (Villeneuve-d’Ascq), France.
What was the result of the last Six Nations match between these teams?
In the 2025 Championship, France defeated Italy 73-24 in Rome, scoring a total of 11 tries.
Who are the key players returning for this match?
France has recalled locks Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou to the starting lineup, while Italy welcomes back full-back Ange Capuozzo from injury.
Has Italy ever won a Six Nations match in France?
No. While Italy has beaten France twice in the Six Nations (2011 and 2013), both of those victories occurred in Rome. Their best result on French soil in the tournament was a 13-13 draw in 2024.