Victor Wembanyama to rejoin France for 2027 World Cup qualification window

French basketball star Victor Wembanyama, the 22‑year‑old San Antonio Spurs forward, has been added to the France national team squad for the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualification window at the end of August. He will participate in two qualifying matches – against Slovenia on 27 August in Paris and against Sweden on 30 August – following preparatory friendlies with Serbia on 20 August in Belgrade and 23 August in Orléans. The selection marks his first appearance for the national side since the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he scored 26 points in the final loss to the United States.

Wembanyama missed the EuroBasket 2025 campaign because of a right‑shoulder injury, but the French federation confirmed his return provided he remains fit. Coach Frédéric Fauthoux, newly appointed after the Olympics, praised his leadership, saying he is “the undeniable leader of his generation” and essential for the team’s future success.