The France national football team enters a new era in the 2026 UEFA Nations League under newly appointed head coach Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over after Didier Deschamps stepped down following a 14-year tenure defined by a second World Cup title, according to Sortiraparis. Supported by former teammate and newly appointed goalkeeping coach Fabien Barthez, Zidane steps back to the touchline to guide Les Bleus through a high-stakes European campaign featuring matches against Italy, Belgium, and Turkey.
Zinedine Zidane Takes Charge at Clairefontaine
The former playmaker, celebrated for his starring roles in the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship triumphs, officially steps into the managerial role previously held by Didier Deschamps. Joining Zidane at Clairefontaine is Fabien Barthez, his former international teammate who takes over as the national team’s goalkeeping coach.
October Showdowns Against Italy and Belgium
Les Bleus open their home schedule at the Stade de France on Friday, October 2, 2026, hosting Italy at 20:45 local UTC+2 time, as reported by Sortiraparis. The fixture offers fans across Paris an opportunity to fill local bars, rooftops, and terraces broadcasting the game live without reservations. Following the opening encounter in St. Denis, Zidane’s side travels to face Belgium before returning to home soil on Monday, October 5, 2026, for a rematch against the Red Devils at the Stade de France.
November Group Stage Conclusion Against Turkey
The autumn group stage concludes away from Paris as France travels to Milan to face Italy on Thursday, November 12, 2026, according to Sortiraparis. Three days later, on Sunday, November 15, 2026, the squad heads to Bordeaux to play Turkey in the final fixture of the Nations League group stage.
Broadcasting Rights Vary by Region
Broadcasting rights for the 2026 UEFA Nations League fixtures vary by region. In France, primary television networks and designated streaming platforms carry live coverage of every fixture, while international broadcast partners provide coverage across global territories for supporters tracking the team from outside Europe.
Where to Watch France vs Italy in Paris?
Where can fans watch the France vs. Italy match in Paris without a reservation?
Numerous bars, rooftop venues, and food courts across Paris provide live public broadcasts of the October 2, 2026 fixture at the Stade de France without requiring advance bookings, according to Sortiraparis.
What is the exact kickoff time for the October 2 match against Italy?
The match begins at 20:45 local venue time in St. Denis on Friday, October 2, 2026.
Who has joined Zinedine Zidane on the new France coaching staff?
Former French national team goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has been appointed as the team’s goalkeeping coach under Zidane.
