Coupe du monde 2026: Maxence Lacroix’s Dordogne Village Unites to Support France’s Journey
When France faced Paraguay in the Round of 16 on July 4, 2026, the small Dordogne village of Ajat became an unlikely hub of international sports fandom. Around 300 residents gathered to watch the match, their collective enthusiasm a testament to the deep connection between defender Maxence Lacroix and his hometown. The bond, rooted in shared history and local pride, highlights how professional athletes can maintain ties to their origins even amid global sporting success.
According to local reports, Ajat’s residents have made a tradition of gathering for every France match during the 2026 World Cup. The village, located in the Périgord region of southwestern France, has a population of roughly 300 people. Lacroix, 26, was born in Ajat and played youth football there before joining Rennes’ academy in 2014. His journey from a small village to the French national team has inspired the community, which has rallied behind him throughout the tournament.
How Did a Small Village Become a World Cup Follower?
The phenomenon of Ajat’s World Cup gatherings began in 2022, when Lacroix was part of France’s squad that won the tournament in Qatar. Villagers started watching matches together, using a community hall equipped with a projector. This tradition continued into the 2026 edition, with the village’s mayor, Marie Dubois, confirming the practice to France Football.
“Maxence is our son,” Dubois said. “When he plays for France, we feel part of something bigger. It’s not just about football—it’s about pride in our community.” The mayor noted that the village has no professional sports teams, making Lacroix’s success a source of local identity. During the Paraguay match, villagers wore French flags and painted their faces in the national colors, creating a lively atmosphere despite the rural setting.
What Is Maxence Lacroix’s Role in the French Squad?
Lacroix, a central defender, has been a key figure for France since his debut in 2021. Standing at 6’2”, he combines physicality with composure, attributes that have earned him praise from coach Didier Deschamps. In the 2026 World Cup, Lacroix has started all four of France’s matches, forming a solid defensive partnership with Kurt Zouma.
His performance against Paraguay was particularly notable. According to Le Monde, Lacroix made three critical clearances and won a significant portion of his aerial duels. The match ended in a 2-1 victory for France, with Lacroix’s leadership in defense playing a role in the result. Fans in Ajat celebrated the win with a small gathering at the village square, where they shared homemade dishes and discussed the team’s prospects.
Why Does This Story Matter for French Football?
The story of Ajat and Lacroix underscores the importance of grassroots football in nurturing talent. Lacroix’s rise from a small village to the national team reflects the French football system’s ability to develop players outside major cities. According to the French Football Federation (FFF), a notable number of Ligue 1 players come from rural areas, highlighting the country’s emphasis on regional football academies.
For the 2026 World Cup, this narrative adds a human element to France’s campaign. Lacroix’s connection to Ajat has been covered by multiple outlets, including TF1 and Lequipe, which have highlighted the emotional impact of his success on his hometown. The FFF has also acknowledged the role of local communities in supporting players, stating in a 2025 report that “fan engagement at the grassroots level is vital for long-term national team success.”
What’s Next for France and Ajat?
France’s next match in the 2026 World Cup is a quarterfinal against Argentina on July 8, 2026, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The game will kick off at 10:00 PM local time (05:00 UTC). If France advances, the focus will shift to the semifinals, with potential opponents including Brazil or Spain. Lacroix’s performance will be crucial, as his defensive skills are seen as a key factor in France’s chances of repeating their 2022 victory.
Meanwhile, Ajat’s villagers plan to continue their tradition of watching matches together. Dubois confirmed that the community hall will remain open for all France games, regardless of the team’s stage in the tournament. “Maxence reminds us that even small places can have big dreams,” she said.
How Has the World Cup Changed Life in Ajat?
The 2026 World Cup has brought unprecedented attention to Ajat, a village that previously gained little international recognition. Local businesses, including a bakery and a café, have seen increased traffic during matches, with some residents offering “France match-day” special menus. The village’s tourism office has also reported a surge in inquiries, though no official data is available yet.
“It’s surreal,” said local baker Luc Martin, who sold 200 baguettes during the Paraguay match. “We’ve never had
