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France take on Spain in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 14th with kick-off set for 9pm local time in both countries (8pm UK).
Thousands of fans are expected to watch the game in public spaces across the country as France bid to reach a third consecutive World Cup final under Didier Deschamps.
Ahead of the game, security and government officials have worked on a combined plan to add more police to the streets of Paris and other densely populated areas of France, as the match also falls on the same day as France’s National Day.
The extra police will also remain in place for the following day as France prepares for potential celebrations if they make it to the final.
“In the event of a victory, which is what everyone wants and what I’m the first to believe in, there will obviously be a celebration,” stated Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez.
“There will also be systematic interventions. We will intervene from the moment there are any instances of degradation or attacks.”
The update comes following celebrations after the 2-0 quarterfinal win over Morocco which resulted in 89 arrests and the accidental death of a teenager.
Paris is a particular area of focus as police look to balance the semi-final against a planned military parade as part of the annual celebrations in the French capital.
