Italian Players Applaud to Counteract Booing of French Anthem at San Siro
Fans at the San Siro initially booed the French anthem during the opening moments of the UEFA Nations League match between Italy and France. In response, the Italian players applauded, managing to silence the disrespectful section of the crowd.
Italy hosted France at San Siro in the fifth round of the Nations League group phase, with Football Italia among the accredited media.
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Italy players respond to fans booing France anthem
You can follow the build-up and live action on the Football Italia LIVE BLOG.
MILAN – NOVEMBER 12: An LED board displays the match fixture ahead of the UEFA Nations League group phase match between Italy and France at San Siro Stadium on November 12, 2026, in Milan.
The fierce rivalry between Italy and France ranks among the most intense in world football. While the match does not occur during a major tournament, the energy is palpable as two of Europe’s football giants meet.
However, a section of the crowd arguably overstepped boundaries by booing the French anthem.
MILAN – NOVEMBER 12: Adrien Rabiot of France is seen in action against Sebastiano Esposito of Italy during the UEFA Nations League match at the San Siro Stadium on November 12, 2026, in Milan.
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Under UEFA regulations, the Stadio Meazza has a reduced capacity for this fixture; however, it is nearly sold out, with around 66,000 attendees, which includes about 1,000 French supporters positioned in the Curva Nord’s third tier.
