France is a powerful nation in terms of global sporting competition. It has produced world and Olympic champions in a number of disciplines, and is home to world-class training facilities and stadiums. French pride and passion has also played a large part in the nation's sporting success.
Soccer
Soccer is the most popular sport in France, a typical trait of many European countries. The French soccer league is strong, but only one club side, Olympique de Marseille, has ever won the UEFA Champions League. The French national soccer team has won the FIFA World Cup on one occasion -- 1998.
Rugby
France is a strong rugby-playing nation. The French rugby union national team regularly challenges for the Six Nations Championship title in Europe, but has never won the Rugby World Cup. The French also play rugby league, but it is not as popular as rugby union.
Cycling
The Tour de France is the most famous cycling race in the world. The annual event was first held in 1903, and French cyclists have won the competition on more occasions than any other nation. Between 1903 and 2009, France won the Tour de France 36 times.
Tennis
France hosts one of the four annual Grand Slam tennis tournaments. The French Open, held at Roland Garros Stadium, is the most prestigious clay court competition in the world. The country has produced a number of Grand Slam winners in the past, including Yannick Noah and Amélie Mauresmo.
Handball
Handball is a growing sport in France thanks, in part, to the success of the French national teams. The French national men's team won the 2009 World Handball Championship.
Basketball
France is a developing basketball nation and one of the strongest in Europe, a fact reflected by the NBA. French basketball players such as Tony Parker, Mickael Pietrus, Johan Petro and Mickael Gelabale have made a positive impact on the world's biggest basketball stage.
Motor Sports
France has a rich motor racing history. It is home to the Magny-Cours Formula One circuit and the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The Dakar Rally also originated in France. Alain Prost is a national sporting hero, having won the Formula One World Championship on four occasions.
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