As the dust settles on another fantastic tournament, four exceptional players have emerged as nominees for the coveted Player of the Championship award at this year’s 6 Nations. From a Scottish perspective, the inclusion of our very own Blair Kinghorn among this elite quartet is a source of immense pride. Alongside him stand England’s Tommy Freeman, Italy’s Tommaso Menoncello, and France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey—each having left an indelible mark on this year’s tournament. With public voting now open, let’s take a closer look at these standout performers and what they’ve brought to the championship.
Blair Kinghorn: Scotland’s Record-Breaking Full-Back
For Scotland, Blair Kinghorn has been nothing short of a revelation. The Toulouse star played every minute of Scotland’s campaign, a testament to his durability and importance to Gregor Townsend’s side. His statistical dominance is staggering: Kinghorn topped the tournament with 86 carries, gained a record-breaking 574 metres—the highest in Six Nations history—and led 13 offloads. His standout moment came against France in Paris, where a blistering run from deep within his own 22 showcased his electric pace and vision, nearly turning the tide in a tense title decider. At 28, Kinghorn’s blend of experience and flair has not only bolstered Scotland’s attack but also put him in contention to become the fourth Scot to claim this prestigious award, following in the footsteps of legends like Stuart Hogg. For Scots fans, his nomination feels like a just reward for a campaign filled with heart and hustle.
Tommy Freeman: England’s Try-Scoring Machine
Across the border, Tommy Freeman has been a beacon of consistency for England. The 24-year-old Northampton Saints utility back achieved a rare feat, becoming the first Englishman to score a try in all five Six Nations matches of a single campaign. His five tries placed him second only to one other nominee on this list, underlining his lethal finishing ability. Freeman’s versatility shone through as he transitioned from wing to outside centre in England’s final-round victory over Wales, adding a new dimension to Steve Borthwick’s backline. With 221 metres gained over the gain line and 11 defenders beaten, Freeman’s knack for finding gaps and powering through contact has made him a fan favourite south of Hadrian’s Wall. While Scotland may rue his contributions against us, his nomination is a nod to his relentless impact.
Tommaso Menoncello: Italy’s Defensive Dynamo
Italy’s Tommaso Menoncello, the reigning Player of the Championship from 2024, has once again proven his worth at just 22 years old. The Benetton centre’s all-around game was on full display, blending attacking flair with defensive steel. Menoncello carried for over 320 metres and scored two tries, but it’s his work off the ball that sets him apart—he led all backs with 59 tackles and three breakdown steals. His partnership with Juan Ignacio Brex in Italy’s midfield has been a highlight, offering a glimpse of the Azzurri’s bright future. For Scotland, who faced Italy’s growing confidence head-on, Menoncello’s nomination is a reminder of the rising threat from the south. Could he become the first player to win this award in consecutive years? His case is compelling.
Louis Bielle-Biarrey: France’s Record-Smashing Winger
Finally, France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey has redefined what’s possible in a Six Nations campaign. The 21-year-old Bordeaux-Bègles winger torched the record books with eight tries—the most by any player in the competition’s history—helping Les Bleus clinch the title. His haul surpassed Ireland’s Jacob Stockdale’s previous best of seven, with a highlight being his clinical finish against Scotland in Paris. Beyond his try-scoring prowess, Bielle-Biarrey contributed four assists, amassing 12 try involvements (8 trys & 4 assists), and beat 18 defenders while making 311 metres gained. For Scotland, who felt the sting of his pace and precision firsthand, his nomination is bittersweet—admiration for his talent tempered by the memory of his decisive impact. At such a young age, he’s already a force to be reckoned with.
Voting is open now at sixnationsrugby.com, every voice counts. Will it be a Scottish triumph, or will one of the other stars steal the crown?
