Victor Wembanyama says he’s ‘rusty’ as France gear up for World Cup qualifiers
Getting back into rhythm with France
Victor Wembanyama is slowly shaking off the rust after rejoining the French national team ahead of the next phase of the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers. He missed the previous qualifying window but returned this summer and featured in a tight friendly in Belgrade where France fell 90-87 to Serbia.
Despite the loss, Wembanyama was pleased with how the team battled through to the final buzzer. He admits he’s not yet at full strength and that it will take a few games to settle into the group’s patterns and timing.
Back with Les Bleus for the first time since helping France earn silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics, his presence gives coach Frédéric Fauthoux a major boost as the squad prepares for more competitive matches.
Wembanyama also squared off with Nikola Jokić in the meeting with Serbia — the two had several physical duels around the rim, but the French player described the contest as respectful and generally clean.
What’s next: qualifiers and the NBA preseason
France head into the next qualifying phase holding a 5-1 record from the opening stage — a strong position that was achieved without Wembanyama in the lineup. His return adds another top-level weapon as the team looks to lock down qualification for 2027.
The next fixtures are at home against Slovenia on August 27 in Paris, followed by a trip to Stockholm to face Sweden on August 30. Those games will be key for integrating Wembanyama back into the system and fine-tuning the team ahead of the qualifiers.
When his international duties wrap up, Wembanyama will head back to the United States to shift focus to the San Antonio Spurs and the upcoming NBA preseason. For now, his main priority is helping France secure a spot at the World Cup while regaining his own game rhythm.
