Autumn Nations Series 2025: Europe’s Premier Rugby Showdown Kicks Off

The 2025 Autumn Nations Series is officially underway. Europe’s top rugby nations are hosting southern hemisphere giants in a five-week international spectacle. The action began on November 1st with decisive victories for England and Scotland.

According to Reuters, this year’s fixtures promise high-stakes drama following the recent British and Irish Lions tour. Fans across the UK, Ireland, and France are filling stadiums for these prestigious tests.

Full Fixture List and Broadcast Details

The schedule is packed with sixteen teams competing across multiple weekends. Key matches include England versus New Zealand on November 15th and Wales facing South Africa on November 29th. Ireland’s clash with the Springboks on November 22nd is another headline event.

In the UK and Ireland, TNT Sports holds the primary broadcasting rights. BBC Radio 5 Live provides live audio commentary for all matches. French viewers can watch on TF1 and beIN SPORT, while Sky Italia covers the action for Italian audiences.

Team Updates and Strategic Shifts

England’s head coach Steve Borthwick has initiated a significant squad rotation for the match against Fiji. Marcus Smith starts at full-back, with Fin Smith at fly-half. Ellis Genge will captain the side, while Maro Itoje returns to the bench.

Only eight players remain from the starting lineup that defeated Australia. This strategic shift aims to build squad depth ahead of future competitions. The changes are particularly evident in the back row, where Chandler Cunningham-South earns his first start.

Rugby League Ashes and International Context

In rugby league, England’s defeat in the Ashes series against Australia has prompted serious reflection. The team lost 26-6 in London and 14-4 in Liverpool. Coach Shaun Wane cited a congested domestic calendar as a key challenge.

Players like Matty Lees maintain the performance gap with Australia is not widening. The final Test at Headingley represents a crucial opportunity to build momentum before the 2026 World Cup. Avoiding a series whitewash remains the immediate priority.

Belgium’s Historic World Cup Qualification Bid

Belgium’s national team, the Black Devils, are on the cusp of Rugby World Cup history. They are just three matches away from securing their first-ever tournament appearance. The team will face Namibia, Brazil, and Samoa in a final qualifying tournament in Dubai.

The Black Devils have risen from outside the world’s top 50 to their current position of 22nd. According to Associated Press coverage, qualification would be a transformative achievement for the sport in Belgium. It would provide a massive boost to rugby’s profile and development resources nationwide.

The 2025 Autumn Nations Series showcases rugby’s global appeal and competitive depth. From established powers to emerging nations, the sport continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its intense physicality and strategic nuance. This year’s fixtures are set to deliver unforgettable moments on the road to the 2027 World Cup.

Info at your fingertips

When does the Autumn Nations Series 2025 start?

The series began on November 1, 2025. It features five consecutive weekends of international rugby matches across Europe.

Where can I watch the Autumn Nations Series?

Viewers in the UK and Ireland can watch on TNT Sports and discovery+. BBC Radio 5 Live provides radio commentary for all matches involving home nations.

Who is in the England squad to face Fiji?

Steve Borthwick has named Marcus Smith at full-back and Fin Smith at fly-half. Ellis Genge captains the side, with only eight players retained from the win over Australia.

Can Belgium qualify for the Rugby World Cup?

Yes, Belgium is three matches away from qualification. They must win a round-robin tournament against Namibia, Brazil, and Samoa in Dubai to claim the final spot for the 2027 World Cup.

What was the result of the Rugby League Ashes?

Australia won the series, defeating England 26-6 in London and 14-4 in Liverpool. The final Test at Headingley will be played as a dead rubber.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press, BBC Sport