From the opening match to the final whistle, the tournament showcased the very best of European rugby. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, here's a rundown of the key highlights that made this year’s championship so special.
Ireland's Dominance: Back-to-Back Champions
Ireland emerged as the undisputed champions of the 2024 Championship, clinching the title for the second consecutive year. Their journey began with a commanding 38-17 victory over France in Paris, setting the tone for their campaign. Throughout the tournament, they displayed a blend of tactical brilliance and raw power, securing wins against Italy, Wales, and Scotland. The only hiccup came in a narrow defeat to England, but by then, their path to glory was already well paved.
France's Strong Finish
France started their campaign on a shaky note with a heavy defeat to Ireland but bounced back impressively. Their thrilling 33-31 victory over England in Lyon was a testament to their resilience and flair. Despite the initial setback, Les Bleus managed to secure second place, showcasing their growth and potential.
England's Mixed Bag
England’s performance in the 2024 Championship was a tale of highs and lows. They began with a close win over Italy and managed to edge past Wales, but suffered defeats to Scotland and France. The victory over Ireland was a highlight, marking their first win against the Irish since 2020. However, inconsistency plagued their campaign, reflecting the ongoing rebuilding process under head coach Steve Borthwick.
Scotland's Resurgence
Scotland continued to build on their recent improvements, finishing third in the standings. They kicked off with a narrow win against Wales - their first in Cardiff since 2002 - and delivered a memorable 30-21 victory over England. Although they faced tough losses to France and Ireland, their spirited performances, particularly the win over England, underscored their ability to produce the goods on the big stage (even if the wait to do so consistently is ongoing).
Italy's Notable Upset
Italy, often seen as the underdogs, had a mixed Championship but managed to avoid the wooden spoon. Their standout moment came with a 31-29 win over Scotland, demonstrating their ability to challenge the traditionally stronger teams. Despite losses to Ireland, France, and England, the Azzurri showed they are not happy to make up the numbers. Their win against Wales - their second in a row in Cardiff - emphasised that point.
Wales' Disappointing Campaign
Wales endured a tough tournament, failing to secure a single win and ultimately receiving the wooden spoon for the first time since 2003. Close defeats to Scotland and England were particularly hard to swallow, and the loss to Italy at home capped off a frustrating campaign. It’s clear that Wales have significant rebuilding to do as they look towards the future, but the necessity for Warren Gatland to blood a young group of players could pay off in the near future.
Memorable Men, Matches and Moments
James Lowe's crucial tries and versatile gameplay; Italy captain Michele Lamaro's leadership and immense determination that led him to top the Championship tackle count; Tommaso Menoncello's adaptability and youthful bravado; England's Ben Earl taking the all-court game to new levels; Wales' Tommy Reffell's coming-of-age performances in the back row; Ireland's Dan Sheehan, a hooker who outscored other team's kickers, demonstrating his all-around excellence. Only Menoncello could take home the coveted Guinness Player of the Championship award - and rightly so - but there was an embarrassment of riches on display.
The contest for the best game was intense, with extraordinary quality on show across several matches. France v Ireland on the opening day in Marseille set the standard very high. France v England in Lyon was a thrilling affair, while England's narrow victory over Ireland at Twickenham with its drama and last-minute drop goal will rank highly in their list of greatest victories in the 2020s. There was also a near-upset for Italy against France that would truly have heralded an Azzurri revolution, what with Menoncello's award backed up by Lorenzo Pani's Try of the Championship.
2025: A Star is Reborn
As we look ahead to the 2025 Guinness Men's Six Nations, much focus will be on one man in particular: Antoine Dupont. Fresh from his Olympic heroics in Paris, where he led France to the top prize that had so painfully eluded his team at the same Stade de France venue in last year’s World Cup, Dupont is poised to bring his extraordinary talent back to the Championship. That could be just what Fabien Galthié’s need as they seek a return to title-clinching ways.
Elsewhere, across the Alps, a lot will be expected of Tommaso Menoncello following the young man's individual accolade in the 2024 Championship. The young back encapsulates what makes Italian rugby so special right now.
The Lions Factor
The 2025 Guinness Men’s Six Nations will significantly influence Andy Farrell's selection for the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia later in the year. As head coach, Farrell will be closely monitoring performances and form throughout the Championship.
Only the most partisan of non-Irish fans will accuse Farrell of bias if and when his squad's pie chart is predominantly green for the tour, given the exceptional few years Ireland have had. Despite Wales' travails, this far out from the tour to Australia, there are reasons for optimism. Should Aaron Wainwright recapture the form he showed in 2024, for example, he could be a key figure in the Lions' Test pack.
Will England wing Tommy Freeman be given licence to roam, presumably on the opposite wing to James Lowe? It's speculation, we know, but that's half the fun of the long and tantalising build-up to a British and Irish Lions tour.
All of this without mentioning the fact that we'll get to see all six teams - and the Lions' opponents in 2025, the Wallabies - in action during this year's Autumn Nations Series, which looks set to be the most memorable November series yet.
There's plenty of exciting rugby to come.
The 2025 Guinness Men's Six Nations kicks off on Friday 31st January with France v Wales at the Stade de France. Full fixture list here.
