No official fan zone in Paris for the 2026 World Cup: these 7 spots are a lifesaver for fans
The 2026 World Cup in Paris promises to be electric, but a unique situation is complicating fans’ plans. The police prefecture has refused to allow an official fan zone to open, following the riots that broke out after PSG’s victory in late May. However, several venues across the capital have decided to step in and turn the city into a true celebration.
Why the 2026 World Cup in Paris feels different this year
This Thursday, June 11, marks the kickoff of the 23rd FIFA World Cup. As a result, from the very first days of the tournament, Parisian fans find themselves without a centralized official fan zone. The police prefecture has in fact refused to allow it to open, largely due to the incidents that occurred in late May.
Yet Paris is not short on options. Many venues have put together full-scale programs, running from June 11 to July 19, to turn every match into a true communal experience. What’s more, some venues go far beyond simply showing the games.
Whether you’re a fan of Les Bleus or just love a lively atmosphere, these spots have got you covered. Here are the seven must-know spots to experience the 2026 World Cup in Paris without missing a single moment.
Ground Control and Communale Saint-Ouen: two sure bets
At Ground Control, located at 81 Rue du Charolais in the 12th arrondissement, Paris’s most central third place is switching to soccer mode for over a month. On the schedule, from June 11 to July 19: live game broadcasts, a free-access soccer field, DJ sets, gaming, workshops, screenings, sports activities, and community initiatives.
For its part, the Communale Saint-Ouen, located at 10 bis Rue de l’Hippodrome in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, aims to become the fans’ home base for the entire tournament. In addition to live broadcasts, the venue features XXL foosball tables, DJ sets, jersey printing, prediction contests, e-sports, face-painting booths, and even a mini World Cup for kids ages 6–12. Also open from June 11 to July 19.
“Soccer is as much about playing it as it is about watching it.”
La Felicità, the Quai de la Photo, and the LEGO Fan Zone: three unique experiences
La Felicità, located at 5 Parvis Alan Turing in the 13th arrondissement, will broadcast the matches on five giant screens throughout its various spaces. The venue will also serve pizza, pasta, tiramisu, and cocktails. It will be open for the tournament from July 11 to 19, 2026.
At Quai de la Photo, 9 Port de la Gare in the 13th arrondissement, the official Coca-Cola Paris fan zone is set up on a barge spanning over 1,000 square meters. Starting June 12, 800 seats will be available, featuring immersive entertainment in addition to the matches. As a result, it is one of the few venues to carry the official label this year.
Finally, the LEGO fan zone at La Villette, located at the Prairie du Cercle Nord on the Ourcq Canal in the 19th arrondissement, will offer over 1,800 square meters of space starting June 13. There are three LEGO-themed activities—a workshop, a participatory mural, and a free-creation space—as well as two soccer experiences: a precision shooting game and 5-on-5 matches. The matches are also broadcast live or recorded.
- Ground Control – 81 Rue du Charolais, 12th arrondissement – June 11–July 19, 2026
- Communale Saint-Ouen – 10 bis, Rue de l’Hippodrome, Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine – June 11–July 19, 2026
- La Felicità – 5, Alan Turing Plaza, 13th arrondissement – July 11–19, 2026
- Quai de la Photo – 9, Port de la Gare, 13th arrondissement – June 12–July 19, 2026
- LEGO Fan Zone at La Villette – Prairie du Cercle Nord, Canal de l’Ourcq, 19th arrondissement – June 13 to July 19, 2026
Central Chapelle: The FIFA Fan Festival in the Heart of Paris
The Central Chapelle food court, located atthe adidas arena at 4 Esplanade Alice Milliat in the 18th arrondissement, is transforming into a FIFA Fan Festival for the duration of the tournament. Six giant screens will broadcast the matches there from June 11 to July 19. A full selection of food and drinks will be available during each match.
So, for fans of the 2026 World Cup in Paris looking for a festive atmosphere in a modern setting, this venue checks all the boxes. The adidas Arena had already proven its ability to create a lively atmosphere during the Champions League final.
Virage: The fan zone to book for Les Bleus’ matches
In the 17th arrondissement, beneath the Paris ring road, Le Virage opens its doors for the Virage World Cup starting June 16, the day of France’s first match. The broadcast will be accompanied by entertainment, pre-game activities in the garden, and happy hours.
In addition, a full-fledged Football Festival is scheduled for July 9–11, featuring Cacahuètes Sluts and DJ Football. Admission is free, but reservations are required. Le Virage is located at 26 Hélène and François Missoffe Street, and will be open until July 19, 2026.
In the midst of the 2026 World Cup in Paris, this venue stands out for its hybrid format combining a concert and a match. For Les Bleus fans, it’s undoubtedly one of the most festive options in the capital. Therefore, booking in advance is strongly recommended so you don’t miss out.
From the banks of the Seine to the shores of the Ourcq Canal, via food courts and third places, the 2026 World Cup in Paris will be experienced at seven venues, each with its own unique identity. Choose the one that suits you best, and experience the tournament your way, surrounded by true fans.
