Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Aviva Stadium in Dublin hosts a pivotal Round 2 encounter of the Six Nations between Ireland and Italy at 9:10 AM ET. Following a heavy opening-round defeat to France, Andy Farrell’s Irish side is under immense pressure to reignite their championship hopes. Conversely, the Azzurri arrive in high spirits after a historic victory over Scotland, eyeing their first-ever tournament win on Irish soil.
With rising star Sam Prendergast pulling the strings for Ireland and Italy’s Paolo Garbisi in peak form, this clash represents a fascinating battle of redemption versus momentum. As the world watches, Ireland aims to defend its home fortress against an increasingly confident Italian squad.
Ireland vs Italy Rugby Viewing Information
- Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026.
- Venue: Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
- Start time: 9:10 AM ET.
- Watch Live Stream: Start Watching Live Online (Available Worldwide)
Ireland vs Italy Rugby Event Details
Today, Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Aviva Stadium in Dublin hosts a high-stakes Round 2 Six Nations clash between Ireland and Italy. Following a heavy 36–14 opening-round defeat to France, Ireland is under immense pressure to recover. Coach Andy Farrell has made six bold changes, handing Six Nations debuts to Ulster’s Robert Baloucoune and Cormac Izuchukwu, while trusting young fly-half Sam Prendergast with the playmaking duties.
In contrast, Italy arrives with historic momentum after a stunning 18–15 victory over Scotland. Though the Azzurri have never won in Dublin, their recent form and physical resilience make them a dangerous threat. Led by captain Michele Lamaro, Italy features a reshuffled backline with Lorenzo Pani coming in at fullback.
Ireland vs Italy Rugby Schedule
| Category | Details |
| Tournament | Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2026 (Round 2) |
| Date | Saturday, February 14, 2026 (Valentine’s Day) |
| Venue | Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland |
| Kick-off Time (Local) | 2:10 PM GMT |
| Kick-off Time (ET) | 9:10 AM ET |
| Kick-off Time (PT) | 6:10 AM PT |
| Referee | Hollie Davidson (Scotland) |
| UK TV / Stream | ITV1 / ITVX |
| Ireland TV / Stream | Virgin Media One / Virgin Media Play |
| USA Stream | Peacock (Exclusive) |
| Italy TV / Stream | TV8 (Free) / Sky Sport Italia (Paid) |
How To Watch Ireland vs Italy Six Nations Live From Anywhere
Free-to-Air Options
- UK: Stream for free on ITVX (ITV1 on TV).
- Ireland: Available for free on Virgin Media Play (Virgin Media One on TV).
- Italy: Catch the action for free on TV8.it.
International Streaming
- USA: Exclusive to Peacock.
- Australia: Live on Stan Sport.
- Canada: Available via DAZN.
Watching from Anywhere
If you are traveling outside these regions, you can use a VPN (like ExpressVPN or NordVPN) to connect to a server in your home country. For example, connecting to a UK server will allow you to access the free ITVX stream from abroad. Simply log in to your chosen service and enjoy the 9:10 AM ET / 2:10 PM GMT kick-off at the Aviva Stadium.
Preview for Ireland vs Italy Rugby Six Nations
Today, February 14, 2026, the Aviva Stadium hosts a high-stakes Round 2 clash between a wounded Ireland and a surging Italy. Following a humbling 36–14 opening defeat to France, Ireland is under intense pressure to revitalize their campaign. Coach Andy Farrell has signaled a “new chapter” by making six changes, handing Six Nations debuts to Robert Baloucoune and Cormac Izuchukwu, while retaining young phenom Sam Prendergast at fly-half.
In contrast, Italy arrives with historic momentum after a stunning 18–15 victory over Scotland. While Ireland remains the favorite at home—having never lost to Italy in Dublin during the Six Nations era—the gap is narrowing. Italy’s backline, led by Paolo Garbisi, looks to prove their Round 1 heroics were no fluke.
Why Ireland vs Italy Rugby Six Nations Will Be Special?
Today’s Ireland vs. Italy clash at the Aviva Stadium is uniquely special, primarily because it falls on Valentine’s Day, creating an electric atmosphere in a sold-out Dublin. Beyond the date, the match marks a historic milestone as Scotland’s Hollie Davidson becomes the first woman to referee a men’s Six Nations game.
The sporting stakes are equally compelling: Ireland is in a rare “rebuilding” crisis after a heavy opening loss to France, while Italy is chasing its first-ever win in Dublin following a shock victory over Scotland. With Andy Farrell handing debuts to Robert Baloucoune, Cormac Izuchukwu, and potentially Edwin Edogbo, this match is a fascinating intersection of milestone moments, desperate redemption, and a surging Italian underdog.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What time is kick-off?
The match kicks off at 2:10 PM GMT local time in Dublin. For international fans, that is 9:10 AM ET or 6:10 AM PT.+1
2. Where is the match being played?
It is being held at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The weather is reported to be cold and wet today, which could play a major role in the tactical kicking game.+1
3. Who is the referee?
In a historic milestone, Scotland’s Hollie Davidson is the referee. She is the first woman to officiate a men’s Six Nations match.
4. How can I watch it for free?
- UK: You can stream it live and free on ITVX.
- Ireland: You can stream it live and free on Virgin Media Play.
- Italy: You can watch for free on TV8.it.
5. Can I watch it without cable in the US?
Yes, the match is exclusive to Peacock in the United States. You will need a Premium subscription to access the live broadcast.
