The French national football team will prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by playing two high-profile friendly matches against Brazil and Colombia in the United States next March, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced.

March 2026 Friendlies

French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo confirmed that Les Bleus are scheduled to face Colombia in Florida and Brazil in Boston during the international window from March 23 to 31, 2026. These matches will take place roughly three months before the World Cup finals, which are being jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Diallo stated:

“Nothing has been signed yet, but things are well on track for us to be able to breathe American air in March with two prestigious opponents. I think it’s the right opportunity, since the World Cup will be held there.”

The friendlies provide Les Bleus with the chance to test their squad against top-tier international opponents in conditions similar to those expected during the World Cup.

Seeding and World Cup Draw

France will be seeded for the 2026 World Cup draw, scheduled to take place in Washington D.C. on December 5, 2025. Brazil, also seeded, is guaranteed not to face France in the group stage, while Colombia, placed in Pot 2, could potentially be a group-stage opponent. These friendlies will allow France to evaluate tactical options and squad depth ahead of the tournament.

Additional Preparations

In addition to the March friendlies, Diallo confirmed that Les Bleus plan to play two more matches in June 2026, ideally on home soil. These games will provide an opportunity for coach Didier Deschamps, France’s longest-serving national team manager, to bid farewell to the French public, as he is set to step down after the World Cup.

Key Takeaways

• France will face Brazil and Colombia in friendly matches in the United States in March 2026.
• The games serve as preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
• France is seeded for the World Cup draw, while Colombia is in Pot 2 and Brazil is also seeded.
• Additional friendlies are planned in June 2026, potentially on French soil, as coach Didier Deschamps prepares to step down.
• The matches provide Les Bleus with the opportunity to fine-tune tactics and assess squad depth against top international competition.