France return to the FIFA World Cup in 2026 with familiar expectations and a new chapter beginning on the sidelines. Didier Deschamps, who guided Les Bleus to the 2018 World Cup title and the 2022 final, is set to lead France in his final tournament as head coach.
Kylian MbappĂ© remains the centre of this generation’s ambitions. The forward scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final against Argentina but ended the night with a runners-up medal after the penalty shootout. Now at the peak of his career, MbappĂ© will aim to add another World Cup title to his collection.
France’s Group I Opponents
France were drawn in Group I alongside Senegal, Iraq and Norway.
The opening match against Senegal is expected to be the toughest early test. The African side have become one of the continent’s strongest teams and several of their players have developed through French football.
Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986, while Norway bring one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers in Erling Haaland. The final group-stage meeting between Norway and France could have a major influence on who finishes top of the group.
Group Stage Fixtures (IST Timings)
France vs Senegal
Tuesday, June 16 — MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford (New York/New Jersey)
Kick-off: 3 PM ET / Wednesday, June 17, 12:30 AM IST
France vs Iraq
Monday, June 22 — Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Kick-off: 5 PM ET / Tuesday, June 23, 2:30 AM IST
Norway vs France
Friday, June 26 — Gillette Stadium, Foxborough (Boston)
Kick-off: 3 PM ET / Saturday, June 27, 12:30 AM IST
For viewers in India, France’s schedule is relatively manageable compared to many teams playing in North American time zones. The Senegal and Norway fixtures begin at 12:30 AM IST, while the Iraq match starts later at 2:30 AM IST.
Kick-off times can change closer to matchday, so fans should check FIFA’s official schedule before each fixture.
Where to Watch France’s Matches in India
France’s World Cup matches will be broadcast on Zee’s UNITE8 Sports channels and streamed live on ZEE5, which holds exclusive rights for the tournament in India.
France’s Final Tournament Under Deschamps
France enter the tournament with one of the strongest squads in world football. Deschamps has already achieved what few coaches have managed by winning the World Cup as both player and manager, but another title would mark a fitting conclusion to his long spell in charge.
The team also benefits from a favourable travel schedule, with all three group matches taking place in the northeastern United States across New Jersey, Philadelphia and Boston.
France begin their campaign against Senegal on June 16, aiming to continue their run of reaching consecutive World Cup finals and begin another serious challenge for the trophy.
