The French national football team will make a notable shift this autumn as they prepare to play their three upcoming home matches at the iconic Parc des Princes. This decision comes in light of ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Stade de France, where the team has historically played since its opening in 1998. The matches, which will be crucial for the qualifications to the 2026 World Cup, are scheduled against Iceland on September 9, Azerbaijan on October 10, and Ukraine on November 13, 2025.
Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), announced the decision during a press conference held on April 17, 2025. "The French national team will play its three autumn matches at the Parc des Princes against Iceland on September 9, Azerbaijan on October 10, and Ukraine on November 13," Diallo stated, emphasizing the importance of securing venues ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
The shift to the Parc des Princes, home of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is primarily due to the ongoing litigation regarding the concession of the Stade de France. The current contract, held by the Vinci-Bouygues consortium, is set to expire in August 2025, but complications have arisen, leading to delays in the transition to a new management. GL Events, a Lyon-based group, was designated by the government in December 2024 to enter exclusive negotiations for the renewal of the concession, but the process has stalled.
Diallo noted, "It is not at all finished with the Stade de France, a symbolic venue we are attached to, but the economic conditions set by the past did not meet our requirements." The uncertainty surrounding the Stade de France has forced the FFF to make a pragmatic decision to host the matches at the Parc des Princes, which previously served as the national team's home ground before the Stade de France was built.
Furthermore, the FFF is still contemplating future arrangements, including the possibility of hosting friendly matches abroad in March 2026. "The French team is in demand everywhere. Without revealing too many secrets, there is a consideration to take them abroad," Diallo hinted, suggesting that fans may see the team playing outside France even for matches that are theoretically designated as home games.
This unprecedented move away from the Stade de France highlights the significant challenges facing the FFF as they navigate the complexities of stadium management and national team logistics. The decision has sparked discussions among fans and stakeholders, many of whom are disappointed that the team will not be playing in their traditional venue.
As the countdown to the World Cup 2026 continues, the FFF is under pressure to finalize arrangements for their home matches, especially with the upcoming qualifiers. The matches against Iceland, Azerbaijan, and Ukraine will be pivotal as the team aims to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
While the Parc des Princes will serve as the temporary home for these matches, the FFF is also exploring options for the final of the Coupe de France 2026, with Lille, Lyon, and the Stade de France all submitting bids to host the event. A decision is expected to be made during an upcoming executive committee meeting.
The situation surrounding the Stade de France remains fluid, with the FFF committed to ensuring that the national team has the best possible environment to compete. As fans eagerly await the upcoming matches, the focus will be on how the team performs in their new home at the Parc des Princes and what this means for their World Cup aspirations.
In summary, the French national team's shift to the Parc des Princes for their World Cup qualifying matches marks a significant moment in the history of French football. With the uncertainties surrounding the Stade de France, the FFF is taking proactive steps to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. As the matches approach, anticipation will build among fans, eager to support their team as they aim for World Cup glory.
