DUBLIN -- France replaced Ireland's hand on the Six Nations rugby trophy after a momentous 42-27 win at Aviva Stadium on Saturday. France decisively took over the lead of the championship with a bonus-point victory and can clinch its first title since 2022 in the final round at home next Saturday when it hosts Scotland.

France’s Damian Penaud, left, breaks away from Ireland’s Sam Prendergast, to score a try during the Six Nations rugby union match between Ireland and France, at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, March 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

Chapeau Fabien. Chapeau Les Blues. This was the moment when France finally shrugged off their World Cup blues, which had lingered for far too long. On the evidence of this display, France look unstoppable.

France moved into pole position for the Six Nations title on Saturday, withstanding an early Antoine Dupont injury to thrash Ireland 42-27 with a blistering second half that dealt a likely fatal blow to the hosts' hopes of a record third title in a row.

France absorbed early setbacks including the loss of captain Antoine Dupont through injury to beat defending champions Ireland 42-27 at the Aviva Stadium and move into pole position for the Six Nations title.

Ireland rugby greats Conor Murray, Peter O'Mahony and Cian Healy will make their last home appearance in Dublin on Saturday.

There are just three fixtures of the 2025 Six Nations remaining and the title race has taken shape with three teams still harbouring ambitions of lifting the trophy on 15 March. France’s emphatic win over Ireland establishes Fabien Galthie’s side as favourites for the title,

THE GRAND SLAM dream is dead and the Six Nations title appears to be gone barring a big shock next weekend. France are now firm favourites to seal the crown by beating Scotland in Paris in the final game of the championship next weekend.