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Giroud currently plays for French side Lille. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

France announced its starting lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 game against Iraq at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Tuesday.

The team sheet did not include Olivier Giroud, the nation’s second-highest goal-scorer of all time. The striker overtook the legendary Theirry Henry by scoring 57 goals from 137 caps.

Why is Olivier Giroud not playing in France vs Iraq?

Olivier Giroud announced his retirement from international football after the Euros in 2024, where Les Bleus exited in the semifinals after losing 1-2 to Spain.

Giroud, however, is still active in club football, plying his wares for Lille in Ligue 1.

However, France still has a power-packed forward line which is heralded by Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele. With Michael Olise and Desire Doue stepping up and playing at either wing, France remains one of the strongest contenders to bid for the trophy.

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Published on Jun 17, 2026