A Guide to Scotland’s 2026 Guinness Men’s Six Nations Campaign

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 23: Scotland's Sione Tuipulotu in action during a Quilter Nations Series match between Scotland and Tonga at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, on November 23, 2025, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

With a settled squad and a coaching staff focused on evolution, the championship offers five opportunities to showcase a high-tempo style of rugby on the world stage.

The hallmark of this Scotland side remains the ability to play at speed. By combining a solid set-piece with a clinical backline, the goal for 2026 is to maintain pressure for the full 80 minutes. Performances over the last year have shown an ability to compete with the world’s best, and the focus now rests on converting that form into consistent results across the seven-week window.

With the tournament structure changing to include just one fallow week, squad depth will be vital. The integration of young talent alongside experienced leaders suggests Scotland is well-prepared for the physical demands of a more condensed schedule.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 23: The Scotland team during the national anthem during a Quilter Nations Series match between Scotland and Tonga at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, on November 23, 2025, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Scotland begins in Rome on Saturday 7 February at 2.10pm, looking to build on the foundations laid in last year’s opening-round victory before gunning for the Calcutta Cup as it returns to Edinburgh on Valentine’s Day at 4.40pm. This fixture is always a highlight of the sporting calendar, and the squad is eager to perform in front of a sold-out Scottish Gas Murrayfield.

A visit to the Principality Stadium on Saturday 21 February at 4.40pm is the final challenge before the tournament’s rest week. This is a venue where Scotland has shown great character in recent years.

Facing the 2025 champions in Edinburgh will be a major highlight as on Saturday, 7 March, Scotland hosts France at 2.10pm. It is a fixture that traditionally produces high-scoring, entertaining rugby before the championship concludes in Dublin. As the opening match of Super Saturday, Saturday 14 March at 2.10pm, it offers a chance to finish the tournament on a high against world-class opposition.

As the hunt for a first Six Nations era title continues, the focus remains on turning high-level performances into trophy-winning consistency. With a blend of world-class experience and emerging young talent, Scotland is looking to write a new chapter in the nation’s storied rugby history.

Round 1
Saturday 7 February, Italy v Scotland, kick-off 2.10pm, live on BBC and Premier Sports

Round 2
Saturday 14 February, Scotland v England, kick-off 4.40pm, live on ITV

Round 3
Saturday 21 February, Wales v Scotland, kick-off 4,40pm, live on BBC and Premier Sports

Round 4
Saturday 7 March, Scotland v France, kick-off 2.10pm, live on BBC and Premier Sports

Round 5
Saturday 14 March, Ireland v Scotland, kick-off 2.10pm, live on ITV