Team sports are among the most popular activities in France. Played in clubs, at school, or with friends, they promote teamwork, build physical abilities, and offer genuine enjoyment. Whether you’re into ball sports, boardsports, or water activities, there’s definitely a team sport out there for you.
Here’s a list of 15 team sports to try in 2025, based on your interests, age, and skill level.
1. Football (Soccer)
Football is the most widely played sport in France. With over 2 million licensed players registered with the FFF, it clearly dominates team sports. Traditionally played on grass with 11 players per team, variations like futsal and five-a-side are also hugely popular in urban areas.
2. Basketball
Played with a smaller ball than football, basketball remains a favorite in schools and competitive settings. It improves coordination, explosiveness, and stamina. 3×3 basketball, a faster, more urban format, has grown in popularity since its Olympic debut.
3. Rugby
Rugby is especially popular in southwestern France. The most well-known version is rugby union (XV), but variations like rugby sevens and rugby league (XIII) offer different playing formats. It’s a contact and strategy-heavy sport that builds physical strength and camaraderie.
4. Handball
Handball is played indoors with two teams of 7 players. It’s a staple in French middle and high schools. Fast-paced and demanding, this sport encourages agility, power, and strong team cohesion.
5. Volleyball
Volleyball is played both competitively and recreationally. It’s commonly taught in PE classes. Beach volleyball, played on sand, offers a more relaxed summer version, especially on French beaches.
6. Field Hockey
Field hockey is a fast-paced team sport played with sticks and a small ball. While less popular than football, it has a loyal club base. Other versions include ice hockey, indoor hockey, and roller hockey.
7. Baseball
Originating from the U.S., baseball is also played in France. It features a ball, a bat, and a slower-paced but strategic rhythm. Local competitions are often organized by passionate community sports clubs.
8. American Football
American football is growing in several French cities. A blend of strategy and strength, it’s played with an oval ball and requires specific gear (helmets, shoulder pads, etc.).
9. Water Polo
Water polo is the go-to team sport in aquatic settings. Very physical, it blends swimming, ball handling, and contact. It’s played by two teams of 7 in a pool designed for the sport.
10. Cricket
Cricket is hugely popular in Commonwealth countries and is gaining ground in France through expat communities and local development efforts. Played in teams of 11, it demands endurance and precision.
11. Ultimate
This team sport uses a frisbee. Ultimate is known for its emphasis on fair play and is usually played in mixed-gender teams. It’s accessible, low-cost, and especially popular in schools and universities.
12. Kin-Ball
A unique sport played by three teams at once using a giant ball. Kin-ball is usually played indoors and promotes inclusion, communication, and coordination among players.
13. Wheelchair Rugby
A high-intensity adaptive sport, wheelchair rugby sees athletes using specialized wheelchairs in fast, strategic matches. It’s a key discipline in parasport competitions.
14. Roller Hockey
Played on skates, roller hockey combines speed, agility, and technique. Usually indoors on smooth flooring, it requires appropriate gear (skates, stick, protective equipment).
15. Triplette Pétanque
While pétanque is often seen as a leisure activity, it becomes a team sport when played in triplette format (3 vs 3). It’s particularly popular in southern France.
Why play a team sport?
Team sports are more than just physical activity:
- You build endurance, strength, and coordination
- You learn to collaborate, communicate, and handle pressure
- You grow by improving with others in a structured environment
- You boost motivation by training with a group
- You experience strong emotions through games, competition, or just shared fun
It’s also a great way for kids and teens to get into sports, providing a sense of structure, friendships, and a well-being routine.
Where to sign up for a team sport?
In France, there are thousands of sports clubs and associations spread across cities, suburbs, and rural areas. Most federations have websites to help you find a club by sport.
You can also play more casually through:
- University sports programs
- Local leisure leagues
- Municipal sports facilities (gyms, fields, pools, public venues)
- Private multisport complexes
Many clubs even offer free trial sessions so you can try a sport before committing.
One important reminder for all players
Whatever team sport you choose, having the right sports insurance is essential. A simple fall, collision, or muscle injury can ruin an entire season—especially without proper coverage.
With good insurance, you can enjoy the sport with peace of mind—whether you play competitively, for fun, in a club, or just with friends. Better safe than sorry… especially on a playing field.
