World Cup History
France has won the World Cup twice: 1998 (as hosts, 3-0 against Brazil in Paris with a Zidane brace) and 2018 (in Russia, 4-2 against Croatia). They were also runners-up in the Qatar 2022 final against Argentina (3-3 after extra time, losing 4-2 on penalties), in what was one of the great finals in World Cup history.
France has 16 World Cup appearances and a tendency to go deep in the tournament. Their first appearance was at Uruguay 1930. The team had a golden period between 1996 and 2006: Euro 2000 champions, 2006 World Cup runners-up (losing the final to Italy on penalties, with Zidane's famous headbutt). The current generation, led by Mbappe, seeks to match or surpass that golden era.
Key Players
Kylian Mbappe
Forward / Winger · Real Madrid
The best player in the world according to many experts and the heir to Ronaldo and Messi. Mbappe scored 12 goals in his first two World Cups (2018 and 2022), including a hat-trick in the Qatar final. At 27 in 2026, he will be at the peak of his career seeking the one trophy that eludes him: the World Cup as captain.
Antoine Griezmann
Attacking Midfielder / Forward · Atletico de Madrid
France's creative brain and one of the most tactically intelligent players of his generation. Griezmann is the player who connects midfield with attack, contributing assists, pressing, and leadership. At Russia 2018 he won the Best Player award at the tournament.
Ousmane Dembele
Right Winger · Paris Saint-Germain
The fastest winger in Europe when at his best. Dembele has matured enormously in recent years, becoming a reliable player as well as a brilliant one. His pace and accuracy in one-on-one situations are devastating for any opposing defense.
Aurelien Tchouameni
Central Midfielder · Real Madrid
The defensive midfielder of the future. Tchouameni combines elite physical ability with sophisticated game vision, being the foundation on which France builds their play. His role is fundamental in freeing Mbappe and Griezmann from defensive duties.
Mike Maignan
Goalkeeper · AC Milan
One of the best goalkeepers in the world and successor to Hugo Lloris between the French posts. Maignan is acrobatic, secure, and an excellent defensive organizer. He has been fundamental in Milan's successes in Serie A and the Champions League.
Path to Qualification
France qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the UEFA Nations League and European qualifiers. Les Bleus competed in Group 2 of Nations League League A and dominated their qualifying group with authority, thanks to the individual talent of their squad and the solidity of the system implemented by Didier Deschamps.
The Nations League is the format where France has excelled most in recent cycles. The French team almost always leads their groups comfortably, allowing them to rotate players and manage the physical load of a long season in demanding leagues like the Premier League, LaLiga, and Serie A.
Match Schedule
France's matches at the 2026 World Cup will be confirmed by FIFA. Check back soon for the complete schedule with dates, venues, and times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many World Cups has France won?
France has won two World Cups: the first in 1998 as hosts (3-0 against Brazil), and the second in 2018 in Russia (4-2 against Croatia). They were also runners-up at Qatar 2022, losing the final to Argentina on penalties (3-3 after extra time).
Will Mbappe play in the 2026 World Cup?
Yes, Kylian Mbappe is expected to be France's captain and star at the 2026 World Cup. At 27 during the tournament, he will be at his sporting peak and will seek the one title missing from his career: the World Cup as Les Bleus' captain.
What happened in the Qatar 2022 final between France and Argentina?
The Qatar 2022 final between Argentina and France is considered by many the greatest match in football history. Argentina was winning 2-0 until the 80th minute, when Mbappe scored twice in 97 seconds to level. In extra time, Mbappe scored his third and Argentina responded with Gonzalo Montiel's goal. Argentina ultimately won on penalties 4-2. Mbappe scored 3 goals in the final, an unprecedented feat in World Cup finals.
Who is France's all-time top scorer at World Cups?
Kylian Mbappe is France's all-time top scorer in World Cup history. He already has 12 goals in just two World Cups (Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022), approaching Just Fontaine, who scored 13 goals in a single tournament (Sweden 1958) — the record for goals in a single World Cup.