Northern Ireland senior men will take on France in an international friendly this summer, it was confirmed today.
The game will take place on Monday 8 June 2026 at the Decathlon Arena Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille Métropole, with kick off time set at 21.10 local time.
The fixture will see Michael O’Neill’s side come up against one of world football’s elite nations, with France preparing for this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup. It will also be Northern Ireland’s first trip back to France almost a decade on from the memorable UEFA Euro 2016 campaign.
The game is the second of two away friendly matches in June. The date, venue and opponent of the first game will be announced in due course.
Both will serve as preparations for the UEFA Nations League campaign, where the team will be competing in League B, Group B2 and face a challenging trio of opponents: Hungary, Ukraine and Georgia across September, October and November this year.
Irish FA Technical Director, Aaron Hughes, said:
“This is exactly the level of challenge we want. France are one of the top sides in world football so it’s a great test for our players.”
Irish FA President, Conrad Kirkwood, said:
“This fixture marks ten years since UEFA Euro 2016 when our brilliant fans created such special memories so it’s a fitting occasion as we look forward.”
The last encounter between the two sides was 27 years ago when France beat Northern Ireland by a goal to nil in Belfast. At that time, they were reigning World Champions having beaten Brazil 3-0 in the Final of the World Cup in 1998.
Further details, including ticketing information, will be confirmed in due course.
