France has confirmed its intention to participate in the Under-20 Women’s World Cup, scheduled to begin in Poland in 29 days. Despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding a potential Uefa-led boycott of Fifa competitions, the French Football Federation (FFF) stated that its tournament plans remain unchanged. “For now, France will be participating to the Fifa U20 Women World Cup,” the federation confirmed on Thursday.
The current situation stems from a collective decision by Europe’s 55 member associations to boycott all Fifa events. This stance was adopted after Fifa president Gianni Infantino proposed selling stakes in various competitions to private investors. Although those specific plans have since been abandoned and Infantino has apologized for his “errors,” Uefa indicated in a recent statement that the boycott threat remains active.
The uncertainty leaves the status of other European nations in doubt. When questioned by Sport regarding their participation in the tournament, which kicks off on 5 September, the English Football Association was unable to provide a comment. Alongside France and England, the tournament field includes Italy, Portugal, Spain, and the host nation, Poland.
Women’s football faces the most immediate impact if the Uefa boycott is enforced. Beyond the U20 tournament, the Under-17 Women’s World Cup is slated for October in Morocco. Furthermore, several nations—including England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland—are scheduled to play qualifiers in October for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The stakes for the senior game are particularly high. Should European teams be barred from participating in the necessary play-offs due to the boycott, they would be ineligible for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, effectively preventing defending champions Spain from competing to retain their title.
France’s commitment to the upcoming youth tournament is notable, particularly given the recent success of its youth setup. Maeline Mendy, currently with Paris FC, previously captained the French Under-19 squad that advanced to the European Under-19 Championship final in 2025.
France say they are still planning to compete in the Under-20 Women’s World Cup next month despite a threat from Uefa to boycott Fifa competitions.
