France base themselves in quiet Jersey City before Senegal opener at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

France have settled in Jersey City, across the Hudson from Manhattan but away from its frenzy, as they prepare for Tuesday’s 21:00 World Cup opener against Senegal.

According to L'Équipe, the squad landed in New York on Sunday evening from their Boston base and checked into the Westin in Newport. Inside the five-star hotel, security was discreet, with a few federal officers and private guards.

Newport offers glassy towers, tidy avenues and waterfront walks overlooking the Manhattan skyline, about a mile from its bustle yet with little footfall. Locals say it is busier at commuting hours on the PATH, otherwise the area stays notably calm.

The contrast with the heart of New York is stark. Times Square has been buzzing since Saturday night after the Knicks won the NBA title, but around the Westin there is little street life, just a mall and chain eateries.

From Newport, France face a roughly 45-minute drive to Melanie Lane, around 40 km away, for Monday’s afternoon training session, which is at 22:00 in France. The MetLife Stadium is nearer, about 20 to 30 minutes to the northeast, with easier access than travelling from Manhattan. The team can sleep opposite the world’s most famous skyline while keeping its noise at arm’s length.

Source: L'Équipe