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Wembanyama Returns to France Squad for August World Cup Qualifiers

His inclusion gives coach Frédéric Fauthoux a clear focal point to build on‑court chemistry and leadership ahead of the late‑August qualifying window.

Le Français Victor Wembanyama lors du match 3 des finales NBA entre les Spurs de San Antonio et les Knicks de New York au Madison Square (New York) le 8 juin 2026
Le basketteur français Victor Wembanyama lors du match du groupe B entre la France et le Japon aux Jeux olympiques 2026 de Paris au stade Pierre-Mauroy de Villeneuve d'Ascq le 30 juillet 2024
Le basketteur français Victor Wembanyama lors du quart de finale entre la France et le Canada aux Jeux olympiques de Paris 2024 à Bercy le 6 août 2024

Overview

  • Fauthoux published a 15‑player roster that confirms Victor Wembanyama will join the France team for the late‑August matches and also marks the return of veteran guard Evan Fournier.
  • France will play two warmup friendlies against Serbia before opening the qualification phase at home against Slovenia and then facing Sweden in Stockholm during the same window.
  • Three players from July’s group—Guerschon Yabusele, Zaccharie Risacher and Bilal Coulibaly—will not take part in August because they have other obligations, according to the coach.
  • Wembanyama reenters the national program after missing Euro‑2025 with a venous thrombosis and after a breakout stretch in the NBA that included Defensive Player of the Year honors and a multiyear contract.
  • The coaching staff says the August slate is intended to create playing habits around Wembanyama and to solidify France’s bid to finish among the top three in the group and secure a place at the FIBA World Cup 2027 in Qatar.