Following an in-depth consultation, the Fédération Française de Football finalized its decisions regarding the venues of certain matches of the French team. In order to meet UEFA’s requirements regarding the qualifications for the 2026 World Cup, and in a context of uncertainty related to the change of concession at the Stade de France in August 2025, a call for tenders was launched, requesting applications from thirteen cities wishing to host the National Men’s Team meetings. After a rigorous assessment of the sporting and economic criteria, the Parc des Princes was selected for the organization of the first three games of this qualifying phase, which will take place next fall.
The choice of the Parc des Princes, usually the home of Paris Saint-Germain, represents a pragmatic solution allowing the Federation to meet its obligations to UEFA within a specified time. Philippe Diallo, President of the Federation, stressed the importance of this decision, recalling the constraints of international match schedule and the uncertainty surrounding the future stadium of France. He also stated that the choice of venues for the next three meetings, scheduled for March and June 2026, would be determined at a later stage, allowing further reflection.
The French team will face Iceland, Azerbaijan and Ukraine, respectively, on 9 September, 10 October and 13 November, as part of the World Cup 2026 qualifications, to be held jointly in the United States, Canada and Mexico. These crucial matches will therefore take place at Parc des Princes, providing fans with an opportunity to support the national team in an emblematic place of French football.