France Navigate Main Round After Perfect Start in EHF EURO 2026
PARIS, 24 January 2026 – The French men’s handball team, defending their 2024 title, have successfully advanced to the main round of the EHF EURO 2026. After dominating their preliminary group in Bærum, Norway, Les Bleus now face a formidable set of opponents in Herning, Denmark, as they continue their quest for a fifth European crown.
France’s Path Through the Tournament
Drawn in Group C alongside co-hosts Norway, the Czech Republic, and Ukraine, France made a commanding start. They opened with a 42-28 victory over the Czech Republic on 15 January, followed by a resounding 46-26 win against Ukraine two days later. The group stage concluded with a tense 38-34 triumph over Norway on 19 January, securing top spot and progression to Main Round Group I.
Carrying over two points from their win against Norway, France began the main round in Herning on 22 January with a narrow 29-32 loss to Denmark. Their campaign continues with crucial matches against Portugal on 24 January and Spain on 26 January, before facing Germany on 28 January. The top two teams from the six-team main round group will advance to the semi-finals in Herning on 30 January.
Tournament Context and Host Nations
The 17th edition of the European Men’s Handball Championship is jointly hosted by Denmark, Norway, and Sweden from 15 January to 1 February 2026. Matches are spread across four venues: Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning, Denmark; Malmö Arena and Kristianstad Arena in Sweden; and the Unity Arena in Bærum, Norway. The final weekend, including the semi-finals and final, will be held in Herning.
The tournament features 24 nations, drawn into six preliminary groups of four. The top two teams from each group progress to one of two main round groups, from which the semi-finalists emerge.
Key Tournament Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Host Nations | Denmark, Norway, Sweden |
| Dates | 15 January – 1 February 2026 |
| Defending Champions | France |
| France’s Group (Preliminary) | Group C (France, Norway, Czech Republic, Ukraine) |
| France’s Current Phase | Main Round Group I (Herning) |
| Next Match for France | vs Portugal, 24 January 2026, 15:30 |
| Final Venue | Jyske Bank Boxen, Herning, Denmark |
Frequently Asked Questions
How has France performed so far in EHF EURO 2026?
France won all three of their preliminary round matches in Group C, defeating the Czech Republic (42-28), Ukraine (46-26), and Norway (38-34). They began the main round with a 29-32 loss to Denmark.
What is the format of the tournament?
24 teams began in six preliminary groups. The top two from each group advanced to one of two main round groups, each containing six teams. The top two teams from each main round group will contest the semi-finals on 30 January, with the final and third-place playoff on 1 February.
Where are France’s matches being played?
France played their preliminary round matches at the Unity Arena in Bærum, Norway. Their main round matches are all being held at the Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning, Denmark.
Who are the main contenders for the title?
Alongside defending champions France, traditional powerhouses like Denmark (hosts and reigning Olympic champions), Sweden (hosts and record five-time winners), Germany, and Spain are considered strong contenders. Croatia, the 2025 World Championship runners-up, are also a threat.