France Coach Deschamps Prefers Not to Schedule Match on Anniversary of Paris Attacks

On Thursday, Didier Deschamps stated that he would rather "not play" in Frances 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ukraine set for 13 November, which coincides with the tenth anniversary of the 2015 Paris assaults.

The assaults on 13 November 2015 across Paris and near the Stade de France, occurring during a friendly game between Les Bleus and Germany, resulted in 130 deaths.

"This is a delicate matter. In my heart, I feel it would be preferable to skip playing on 13 November," the France manager shared with journalists at a press briefing where he revealed his lineup for the approaching qualifiers.

"Is that feasible? I lack the details, and the choice is not mine to make."

Deschamps indicated that the encounter with Ukraine shall be "an exceptional day featuring memorials".

"To honour the families who endured loss and grief, the responsibility to commemorate must remain paramount. However, a vital football fixture is scheduled for that day which holds great significance for us," he continued.

France leads Group D having earned 10 points across four fixtures, three points clear of Ukraine, whom they welcome on 13 November prior to heading to Azerbaijan three days subsequently.