LONDON (AP) — France will try to win the Six Nations without its talisman after captain Antoine Dupont ruptured cruciate ligaments in his right knee at the weekend.

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.

Ireland vs. France in the 2025 Six Nations is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

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)

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.

Gregory Aldritt said the sight of Antoine Dupont in the changing room was the fuel behind their second-half onslaught against Ireland.

Former Australia star David Campese has pointed the finger of blame at Ireland following Antoine Dupont’s horrific injury he suffered at the Aviva on Saturday. Although Les Bleus came away with a massive win that put them within touching distance of the Six Nations title,