Key Highlights
- France vs Australia match kicks off on Saturday 22 November 2025 at 9.10pm CET.
- Free live stream available on TF1+ in France and other platforms like Discovery+, Stan Sport, Peacock for overseas viewers.
- Rugby World preview highlights France’s struggles this autumn series against Australia’s poor form as well.
- Match line-ups include experienced French players like Gaël Fickou and Charles Ollivon facing off against Australian players under new head coach Joe Schmidt.
Rugby World Preview: France vs Australia – A Test of Determination
The autumn international rugby season takes a dramatic turn as France and Australia prepare to face each other in Paris on Saturday, 22 November 2025. This match holds significant weight for both teams, especially considering their recent form and the high stakes involved.
France: Struggling but Experienced
France enters this encounter with a mixed bag of results after a challenging autumn series. While they secured a victory against Fiji, 34-21, which was somewhat expected, their loss to South Africa by a comprehensive score of 32-17 in the wake of a Springboks team reduced to half its strength due to red cards is a major disappointment. Head coach Fabien Galthié has made strategic changes, bringing back Gaël Fickou and reuniting Anthony Jelonch, Charles Ollivon, and Grégory Alldritt for their first time in the back row since that World Cup quarter-final.
Australia: Limping to an End
On the other side of the coin, Australia are facing a series of defeats that have left them limping towards the end of 2025. Despite notable victories over teams like the British & Irish Lions and Argentina, they’ve struggled in their recent matches, winning just one out of their last seven games against Japan. This match marks head coach Joe Schmidt’s final game in charge, adding a layer of significance to the contest.
Match Line-Ups and Officials
The teams are well-prepared for this crucial encounter, with France’s line-up featuring seasoned players like Thomas Ramos, Nicolas Depoortere, Gaël Fickou, and Charles Ollivon. Australia will field a mix of experienced and emerging talents, including Max Jorgensen, Harry Potter, and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii.
Key official Luke Pearce from England will be in charge of the match, with assistant referees Andrew Brace from Ireland and Craig Evans from Wales providing support. Marius van der Westhuizen from South Africa will serve as the Television Match Official (TMO).
Watching Options
For fans looking to catch this match live, there are several viewing options available. In France, viewers can tune into TF1+ for free streaming. For those overseas, platforms like Discovery+ in the UK and Stan Sport in Australia provide coverage.
US audiences can watch on NBC’s Peacock service, while New Zealand rugby enthusiasts have Sky Sport NZ as their option.
To ensure you don’t miss out even if traveling abroad, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help bypass geo-blocking restrictions. NordVPN offers an exclusive deal during Black Friday with up to 77% off and three months free for Rugby World readers.
As the autumn international series progresses, this match promises to be a high-stakes test of both teams’ resilience and determination. With France looking to finish on a high after a mixed season and Australia under new leadership trying to secure a strong finale, fans can expect an exciting encounter in Paris.
