What Is the Most Popular Sport in France?

Soccer is the most popular sport in France, otherwise known as football to the French. There are thousands of football teams all over the country, and the sport is a heated topic among locals. France has professional and amateur teams, including a women’s division.
The first soccer club in France was formed in 1863 by British immigrants, and modern soccer was invented in 1872 by English sailors. The France national football team represents France on the international stage, and the French Football Federation governs the teams. There are also overseas teams in such countries as French Guiana and Martinique that play on behalf of France. Overseas players, such as Lilian Thuram of Guadeloupe and Bernard Lama of Martinique, have been assets to France in the soccer arena.