The breadth of France's win by five tries to three, running up its highest score in Ireland, was even more impressive in the absence for the last 50 minutes of injured captain Antoine Dupont. A serious-looking right knee injury to the talismanic scrumhalf prompted France coach Fabien Galthie to cite Ireland's Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter.

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.