Why is Olivier Giroud not playing for France at the 2026 World Cup?
France will be playing at a World Cup without their all-time top goalscorer for the first time since 2014 this summer.
Olivier Giroud has not been called up to Les Bleus’ squad for the 2026 tournament, paving the way for a new generation.
At the age of 39, Giroud is coming to the end of his playing career and retirement could be just around the corner.
But he won’t be having one last dance alongside Kylian Mbappe and co before hanging up his boots for good…
Why is Olivier Giroud not playing for France?
Giroud is not part of France’s World Cup squad as he announced that he would be retiring from international football in 2024.
His final game for his country came at Euro 2024 as Les Bleus were beaten 2-1 by Spain in the semi-finals.
He had already confirmed before the tournament that he would not be playing at another for the nation again in the future.
“To be honest, this will be my last competition with Les Bleus,” Giroud said. “Obviously, I’m going to miss it a lot.
“But I think the French team will be over after the Euros. We need to make way for the youngsters.
“You also have to be careful not to have one season too many. You have to find the right balance.
“I’ve always said that I was going to stop when my body asked me to. I think I’ve got two good years left.
“But as far as the French team is concerned, I think that’ll be the end of it.”
A French footballing legend
Giroud retired as France’s all-time top goalscorer, netting 57 goals in 137 caps for his country over 13 years.
He also made the third-most appearances for Les Bleus, sitting behind only Lilian Thuram (142 caps) and Hugo Lloris (145 caps).
The former Chelsea and Arsenal striker played at three World Cups in total, scoring five goals in 18 games at the tournament.
Four of those goals came in 2022, with one coming in 2014, while he lifted the iconic trophy in 2018.
Giroud’s presence is sure to be missed for France this year, particularly as he is still actively playing football.
Despite being 39, he played 44 games in all competitions this season after returning to Ligue 1 to play for Lille.
He scored 11 goals and provided one assist, with four of his strikes impressively coming in the Europa League.
His contract with Lille is up this summer, which leaves his future in top-flight football up in the air.
However, he has left the door open to signing a new deal at the French club, with talks ongoing to continue his career.
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