The 2026 Six Nations opened with a blockbuster clash between France and Ireland in Paris.
The two teams have won the last four championships between them and will kicked off the tournament at Stade de France on Friday, with the hosts winning 36-14.
While the tournament typically starts in early February, this year's opener was unique because it was held on a Thursday night.
Here is everything you need to know about why.
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Why did the Six Nations start on a Thursday?
While the game was still be a sell-out and French fans still brought their trademark passion to Stade de France, the workday on Friday may be a little slower to start, given the match was on a Thursday night.
The game was on Thursday to avoid a clash with the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan. The ceremony is set to kick off at 7.30 p.m. GMT on Friday and will feature performances from Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli.
Has a Six Nations game ever been played on a Thursday before?
Yes and no.
Back when the tournament was known as the Five Nations, before the introduction of Italy, a games was played on New Year's Day, which happened to be a Thursday.
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Coincidentally, that match was also between France and Ireland, with the hosts losing 13-6 in Paris.
Ireland went on to win a grand slam that year.