With less than a month to go before kick-off, World Cup fever is gripping France. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, the entire world will have its eyes fixed on Canada, the United States and Mexico for the greatest football competition on the planet. And the Bleus, with their ambitions fully intact, are more determined than ever to bring home the most coveted trophy in world sport.

An unprecedented format for a historic edition

This 2026 edition is unique in more ways than one. For the first time in history, the World Cup welcomes 48 teams — up from 32 previously — divided into 12 groups of 4 nations. An ambitious expansion that gives more countries the chance to experience the world stage, but also makes the road to the title more complex.

Hosted across three countries, the competition will use iconic stadiums such as MetLife Stadium in New York, AT&T Stadium in Dallas and BC Place in Vancouver. Colossal logistics, guaranteed spectacle.

France's group: manageable but not without pitfalls

France have been drawn into Group I, alongside Senegal, Norway and Iraq. A seemingly accessible group, but not without its traps:

  • Senegal: reigning African champions, the team remains a dangerous and physically formidable side.
  • Norway: powered by the irresistible Erling Haaland, Norway are playing their first World Cup since 1998. A thunderous return is expected.
  • Iraq: winners of their play-off, Iraq represent the outsider that must not be underestimated.

France will begin their campaign on June 16 against Senegal in New York, before facing Iraq on June 22 in Philadelphia. The final group stage match will pit the Bleus against Norway on June 26 in Boston — a game that could already have the feel of a classic.

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The Bleus: what are realistic ambitions?

Finalists in 2022 in Qatar, world champions in 2018 in Russia, France are among the designated favourites for the 2026 edition. The current generation approaches this competition with a genuine hunger for the title.

The French squad can count on a solid core: a well-drilled defensive unit, midfielders capable of controlling the game and an attacking line that makes supporters dream. The depth of the bench, in particular, will be a precious asset across a tournament as long and demanding as this new 48-team format.

"We didn't come just to take part. We're here to win."

Other favourites to watch

France will not be alone in chasing the title. Several nations come forward with strong arguments:

  • Brazil: perennial contenders, Brazil arrive with a talented generation and the usual pressure of a football-obsessed nation.
  • England: after years of heartbreak, the Three Lions finally want to claim a second world title.
  • Germany: rebuilding since 2018, the Mannschaft have rediscovered their form and approach 2026 with calm ambition.
  • Spain: reigning European champions, La Roja relies on polished collective play and a new golden generation.
  • Portugal: without Ronaldo, who has retired from international football, Portugal possess a modern and effective collective under the leadership of new figureheads.

Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in France?

In France, broadcasting rights are shared between TF1 and M6 for free-to-air matches, supplemented by offers on streaming platforms. With the time difference with North America (between -5h and -9h depending on the city), some matches will kick off in the late afternoon or evening in France — ideal for football evenings with friends.

The official Fan Zone in Paris is also expected to return, providing a gathering space for supporters who cannot make the trip across the Atlantic.

France's schedule at a glance

  • June 16, 2026: France vs Senegal — MetLife Stadium, New York
  • June 22, 2026: France vs Iraq — Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
  • June 26, 2026: Norway vs France — Gillette Stadium, Boston

If France make it past the group stage — which remains the minimum objective — the Round of 16 will take place in early July. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New York.

A unique opportunity to cheer together

Beyond the sporting results, the World Cup remains above all an extraordinary popular celebration. In France, as at every major competition, millions of supporters will gather around a screen, in bars, parks or local stadiums to watch the matches together.

The last victory in 2018 sparked scenes of unparalleled jubilation across the country. In 2026, with a competitive squad and an expanded competition that multiplies possible scenarios, French football fans have every reason to keep on dreaming.

See you on June 11 for kick-off. Allez les Bleus!