John Inverdale introduces coverage from the Stade de France in Paris, where the 2019 tournament gets under way.
A combination of excellent results for Wales in the autumn internationals and a dismal run of form for the French mean that Warren Gatland's men start this match as favourites, as they aim to claim the title for the first time since 2013.
This is the beginning of the end of an era for Wales. Coach Warren Gatland is leaving the national side after the 2019 Rugby World Cup, making this his last Six Nations. Since taking over as coach in 2007, Wales have won two grand slams and three Six Nations titles.
Wales failed to win either of their away fixtures in last year's tournament, but three home wins at least gave them the consolation of finishing second behind Ireland in the standings, with the last of those victories being a 14-13 triumph over the French.
