Nations Pod Guide: Paris

Nations Pod Guide: Paris

Author: BBC Radio 5 Live March 12, 2026 Duration: 46:23

It’s the final instalment of our guide series, and this week Chris, Tom and GRO are transporting you to Paris. They discuss their favourite memories of watching rugby in the French capital. Tom recalls Brian O’Driscoll’s hat-trick at the Stade de France and why it’s memorable for all the wrong reasons. GRO tells us about Sir Gareth Edwards’ favourite spot in the city and how he spent an evening with the legendary scrum-half and Jean-Claude Skrela. Where does the atmosphere at the Stade de France rank amongst the other Six Nations venues? And what’s the one you thing you shouldn’t do in Paris according to GRO?


From the heart of the action to the analysis in its aftermath, Rugby Union Weekly delivers the definitive sound of the sport. Produced by BBC Radio 5 Live, this podcast offers more than just match summaries; it’s a deep, engaging conversation about the strategies, stories, and personalities shaping rugby. During major events like the 2026 Men's Six Nations, the show shifts to a daily format, ensuring you’re always up to date with immediate reaction, breaking news, and insightful interviews with the game’s biggest figures. Each episode feels like pulling up a chair in a lively discussion, where the passion for rugby is palpable. You’ll hear expert breakdowns of pivotal moments, thoughtful debates on contentious decisions, and a genuine connection to the pulse of the tournament. Beyond the daily updates, the podcast provides comprehensive weekend reviews that tie the entire narrative together. It’s this blend of timely reporting and reflective analysis that makes the podcast a staple for fans. Tune in not just for the scores, but for the context and camaraderie that only a dedicated rugby conversation can provide. Your perspective is part of the mix too, with the team welcoming interaction from listeners throughout the season.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 303

Rugby Union Weekly
Podcast Episodes
The growth of the Women’s World Cup [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:06
With just over a week to go before England host the Women’s Rugby World Cup, how much has changed in the 34 years since Wales hosted the inaugural event? And what does the future look like? Eleanor Oldroyd and Sara Orcha…
The big Lions debrief in Sydney [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:43
What was the best moment of the 2025 Lions tour? Who should have been crowned player of the series? Chris is joined by Tom English, Lauren Jenkins and Nigel Ringland to dissect the tour of Australia. We pick our combined…
Listeners' special in Sydney! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:41
On a filthy Sydney afternoon, we bring together a gang of loyal pod listeners to thrash out some of the major talking points of this Lions tour from a fans' perspective. How much do Lions fans just want to win, and how m…
'Job done but not complete' - Lions aim for whitewash [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:53
We’re podding from the Lions team hotel after Andy Farrell named his squad for the third Test in Sydney. Chris, Ugo and John Barclay discuss the two changes to the Lions starting XV with Blair Kinghorn replacing James Lo…
Lions Top 10s: Tours [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:45
1997 or 1974? Two iconic tours to South Africa, but which one ranks higher? In the final episode of our top 10 series, Lions legends Jamie Roberts and Matt Dawson join Chris to rank the best tours of all time. We ask Jam…
Hooper, Itoje and Gilpin in Sydney [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:46
We're in Sydney next to the opera house chatting to Wallabies legend Michael Hooper to get his take on THAT clearout and to discuss the health of Aussie rugby following the series defeat with the World Cup coming up in t…
The Nations Pod - Final Test week [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:11
Chris and Tom have made it to Sydney for final Test week and GRO is back in the Nations pod squad having been declared fit for selection. There is lots of love for Finn Russell and how he orchestrated the final moments o…
Can the Lions seal the series or will we get a decider? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:43
Can Australia bounce back at the famous MCG to level the series? Or will the Lions clinch a second successive series down under? With nine Irishman in Andy Farrell’s team, Chris gets the Irish perspective on the second T…
Ringrose out but nine Irishmen start at the MCG [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:58
Chris, Ugo and John Barclay react to Andy Farrell's team for the second Test against Australia. There's no Sione Tuipulotu or Garry Ringrose as Huw Jones and Bundee Aki make up the midfield. But Jac Morgan does make the…