Published on December 11, 2024 at 9:45 p.m. – updated on December 11, 2024 at 11:43 p.m.
UEFA has decided not to accept the French candidacy to host the 2025 Final Four of the Nations League, preferring Italy or Germany, according to Le Figaro.
A decision which highlights the tough competition between nations and raises questions about the influence of the French Football Federation (FFF) in international bodies. Under the direction of Philippe Diallo, the FFF proposed organizing the semi-finals and the final at the Stade de France and the Parc des Princes, some of the most modern infrastructures in Europe. However, the European body chose to favor the Italian and German applications, highlighting their economic potential and their ability to guarantee a major media impact.
The Blues aim for the coronation
This decision marks a setback for France, as the country aimed to strengthen its presence on the international stage of major competitions. Despite obvious logistical advantages, the French strategy was not enough to convince. On a sporting level, the Blues face Croatia in the quarter-finals between March 20 and 23, 2025. The French team faces a major challenge. Croatia, with its experience in major competitions, had already beaten France 1-0 at the Stade de France in 2022. Didier Deschamps warned of the quality and resilience of this opponent.
In the event of victory, the path of the Blues could cross that of Spain or the Netherlands in the semi-final, two nations among the most formidable in Europe. The semi-finals and final will be held between June 2 and 10, 2025, adding additional pressure to an already busy schedule. If the French team remains focused on its performances, this setback for the organization of the Final Four highlights the need for the FFF to review its strategies. UEFA’s choice to favor Italy or Germany underlines the importance of effective lobbying and increased influence in the decision-making bodies of European football.
