The Olympic silver medalists want to turn the Astroballe into a fortress. A few months after their incredible journey at the Paris Games, the French women's basketball team is going back to the high level competition. From March 11 to 17, they’ll head to l'Astroballe in Villeurbanne, where the Blues will compete in a World Cup Qualification Tournament organized by the French Basketball Federation. It's a crucial event, at home, in front of their fans.
Five nations, one goal: Berlin 2026
During this major qualifying tournament, the French team will take on the Philippines (March 11 at 8:30 PM), Colombia (March 12 at 8:30 PM), Germany (March 14 at 8:30 PM), Nigeria (March 15 at 7 PM), and Korea (March 17 at 8:30 PM). The goal is to keep up the performances to secure a spot at the World Cup. In sight: Berlin, where the 2026 World Cup will take place. With only 11 tickets available for 24 teams, there’s no room for error. Here, every possession will count.
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In total, 16 teams will participate in the final competition, including 5 nations that have already qualified: Germany (the host country), Belgium (European champion), the United States (Champions of the Americas), Australia (Asian champion), and Nigeria (African champion). So you can say the level is set to be sky-high! For the French team, participating in this tournament is a must. And above all, it’s a dream opportunity to make a strong impact before 2026.
A popular event designed for the audience
With this major event, women’s basketball aims to attract, unite, and excite! After Nantes, Bourges, and Strasbourg, the FFBB is banking on the vibrant atmosphere of Lyon to make this tournament a memorable occasion. And the ambition is high: to fill the stands, create a passionate atmosphere, and propel the team towards qualification. Women’s basketball is truly in the spotlight!
He no longer hides: he embraces his ambition and his show.
For Jean-Pierre Hunckler, president of the federation, this tournament must be «a grand popular festival» and a springboard to Berlin. It’s an ambitious speech, reflecting a team that no longer wants to settle for honorable medals. In March, the Astroballe in Villeurbanne, home of ASVEL, will be the scene of a conquest. And perhaps, the first step toward a world championship title...