On the banks of the Seine, under the shadow of the Eiffel Tower and to the sound of the Marseillaise, a passion that transcends borders and generations has flourished: French soccer and France’s greatest teams. Shrouded in history, culture and tradition, the game of the crowds has found in France not only fertile ground, but a veritable stage for epic spectacles and immortal moments.
From the first kicks on the streets of Paris to the modern arenas that dot the country, the journey of French soccer is a tale of heroism, drama and triumph. Ligue 1, the highest division of French soccer, is the epicenter of best teams in France, where the giants of the game clash, writing memorable chapters of a saga that has been unfolding for over a century.
Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP
As well as renowned clubs, the history of French soccer is also marked by great players who have left their indelible mark on the sport. Names such as Zinedine Zidane, Michel Platini, Thierry Henry and Raymond Kopa are revered not only in France, but around the world for their exceptional skills and contributions to the game.
Zidane, with his genius and elegance on the pitch, led France to victory in the 1998 World Cup, while Platini enchanted spectators with his class and refined technique. Henry, one of the greatest goalscorers in the history of soccer, shone at both club and national team level, while Kopa was a pioneer of French soccer, winning the world player of the year award in 1958.
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Shall we take a look at the list?
Complete list of the best teams in France
From the very beginnings of French soccer to the present day, the best teams in France have dazzled the world with their skill, determination and passion for the game. It’s this rich history, rivalries and achievements that we’re going to explore as we delve into the history of the best teams in France.
The list of the best teams in France, ranked by number of domestic and international titles, includes:
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Olympique de Marseille
- AS Saint-Étienne Loire
- Olympique Lyonnais
- AS Monaco FC
- FC Girondins de Bordeaux
- FC Nantes
- Stade de Reims
- Lille OSC
- OGC Nice Côte d’Azur
With these names in mind, let’s find out more about the history of the best teams in France!
Best teams in France: discover the history of the main clubs
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Founded in 1970, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) quickly became a powerhouse in French soccer. The Parisian club has its home at the imposing Parc des Princes, located in the heart of the French capital. With a capacity of over 47,000 spectators, the stadium is a veritable cauldron of emotion during PSG matches.
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Throughout its history, the club has won numerous Ligue 1 titles and has also excelled in European competitions. Major achievements include winning the UEFA Champions League in the 2019-2020 season, as well as multiple French Cup and French League Cup titles. The Parisian fans are known for their passion and loyalty to the club, filling the Parc des Princes at every match and creating an electric atmosphere that propels PSG to victory.
Main Titles
- Ligue 1: 11 titles
- French Cup: 14 titles
- French Super Cup: 12 titles
Olympique de Marseille
With a history dating back to 1899, Olympique de Marseille is one of France’s oldest and most revered clubs. The Vélodrome stadium, located in the vibrant city of Marseille, serves as the club’s home and is one of the most iconic venues in French soccer. With a capacity of over 67,000 fans, the Vélodrome has been the scene of unforgettable moments over the years.
François Lo Presti/Getty Images
Olympique de Marseille have won several Ligue 1 titles throughout their history, but their most glorious moment came in 1993 when they became the first French club to win the UEFA Champions League. In addition, the club has a fierce rivalry with Paris Saint-Germain, fueled by the competition between France’s two biggest cities.
The Marseille fans are known for their fervor and devotion, turning the Vélodrome into an intimidating fortress for opponents and driving Olympique de Marseille towards success.
Main Titles:
- Ligue 1: 9 titles
- French Cup: 10 titles
- French Super Cup: 3 titles
AS Saint-Étienne Loire
Founded in 1919, AS Saint-Étienne Loire is one of France’s most traditional and successful clubs. The Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, located in Saint-Étienne, is the stadium that is home to the club’s fervent supporters. With a capacity of over 41,000 spectators, the Geoffroy-Guichard is the scene of historic and exciting moments.
Romain Biard/Icon Sport
Throughout its history, AS Saint-Étienne has won an impressive 10 Ligue 1 titles, establishing itself as a powerhouse of French soccer in the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to domestic successes, the club has also performed remarkably well in European competitions. AS Saint-Étienne fans are known for their passion and loyalty to the club, turning every game into a vibrant and colorful celebration.
Main Titles:
- Ligue 1: 10 titles
- French Cup: 6 titles
- French Super Cup: 5 titles
Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon)
Founded in 1950, Olympique Lyonnais, also known as Lyon, has emerged as a dominant force in French soccer in the 21st century. The Groupama Stadium, located on the outskirts of Lyon, is the club’s modern home. With a capacity of over 59,000 spectators, the Groupama Stadium is one of the most modern and well-equipped stadiums in France.
Olympique Lyonnais dominated the domestic scene for much of the 2000s, winning seven consecutive Ligue 1 titles between 2002 and 2008.
Damien LG/Lyonnais
As well as domestic success, the club has also performed impressively in European competitions, reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League on several occasions. The Olympique Lyonnais fans are known for their passionate support and for creating an electrifying atmosphere at the Groupama Stadium at every match.
Main Titles:
- Ligue 1: 7 titles
- French Cup: 5 titles
- French Super Cup: 8 titles
AS Monaco FC
Founded in 1924, AS Monaco FC is known for its attacking style of play and its tradition of developing young talent. The Stade Louis II, located on the stunning shores of the Mediterranean, is the stadium that hosts the Monegasque team. With a capacity of over 18,000 spectators, the Stade Louis II is one of the most picturesque and distinctive stadiums in Europe.
Divulgação/AS Monaco FC
AS Monaco FC has won several Ligue 1 titles throughout its history, as well as reaching the finals of European competitions. The club is also renowned for its intelligent transfer policy and its ability to develop young talents, who are often sold to bigger clubs for significant sums.
The AS Monaco FC fans, although not as numerous as those of other clubs, are known for their fervent support and devotion to the club, filling the Stade Louis II with their passion and enthusiasm.
Main Titles:
- Ligue 1: 8 titles
- French Cup: 5 titles
- French Super Cup: 4 titles
French soccer transcends borders and cultures, uniting people from all backgrounds in a common passion for the game. France’s biggest teams not only enrich the national scene, but also contribute to the rich tapestry of world soccer.
With their glorious history, legions of dedicated fans and exceptional talents, France’s greatest teams continue to inspire generations and write exciting new chapters in the book of soccer.
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