World Cup 2026: female fans turn to safe spaces in France | OneFootball

Female supporters in France say sexist insults, assaults during celebrations and doubts over their legitimacy persist, so during the 2026 World Cup some are choosing women-first safe spaces to watch matches. According to L'Équipe, many continue to report hostile behaviour.

Stadiums, fan zones and bars are welcoming more women, with women now 40% of those interested in football in France. Yet some still feel the need to create their own places to enjoy the game in peace.

In response, the association Her Game Too France has rolled out an anti-sexism scheme in several partner bars. Posters featuring a QR code let victims or witnesses of sexist or sexual violence report incidents quickly. Association member Anoush Morel says the posters can deter misconduct when they are visible in the venue.

Other projects include the Lady Safe Zone, a women-only fan zone run by the social club Lady Safe Place, chaired by Aïssata Savane. There were 200 in attendance for the France-Senegal match, 3-1, last Tuesday.

Savane says the zone lets women enjoy themselves, support one another, share advice and laugh together, while she also hopes women will not need to seek out special spaces to feel welcome in future.

Source: L'Équipe