Exciting Opener: England vs France Kicks Off UEFA Women’s Euro 2025
The highly anticipated curtain-raiser for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 promises fireworks as reigning champions England face off against a revitalized France. This powerful matchup brings together two of Europe’s top teams, with the Lionesses looking to defend their 2022 crown, while Les Bleues set their sights on rewriting their story after a semi-final exit last time around.
France enters the tournament with renewed energy under new head coach Laurent Bonadei and will begin their Group D campaign alongside Wales and the Netherlands. The group stage action begins on July 5, with the spotlight firmly on this blockbuster showdown between England and France.
Women’s Football Leads in LGBTQ+ Visibility
Professional women’s football continues to lead the way in LGBTQ+ inclusion and representation globally. Across the sport, numerous athletes proudly live their truth, creating a more inclusive environment for fans and fellow players alike.
England’s national team features prominent LGBTQ+ figures including Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Lauren Hemp, and Beth Mead. France also has several LGBTQ+ players, though many receive comparatively less media attention despite their significant impact on and off the field.
Pauline Peyraud-Magnin: France’s First Out National Player
Pauline Peyraud-Magnin broke new ground in French football history by becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ player from the national team. With 64 appearances for France, the goalkeeper now plays for Juventus in Italy.
In 2020, during her stint at Atlético Madrid, Peyraud-Magnin posted a candid photo on Instagram with her partner Camille. She recalls, “It was a spontaneous post. I wasn’t thinking about how it might be received.” One response stood out—a moving message from a South American fan describing the challenges of being LGBTQ+ in her country. “It made us realize how fortunate we are,” Peyraud-Magnin shared.
Constance Picaud: Championing Family and Visibility
French goalkeeper Constance Picaud, who has earned 13 national caps, publicly celebrated her marriage to her wife via Instagram in 2021. Since then, the couple has offered glimpses into their joyful life together, from picturesque holidays to evenings at home with their dog, Simba.
In 2024, the couple welcomed their daughter, Anaë. During Picaud’s signing with Fleury that same year, Anaë made a memorable appearance, seated proudly in a royal-style chair while her mother finalized her contract with the club.
Sandie Toletti: Quiet Power, On and Off the Field
Sandie Toletti, a key midfielder with 68 caps and currently playing for Real Madrid, has long been recognized for her calm leadership and powerful presence in midfield. Off the pitch, she was previously linked to Swiss international Viola Calligaris. While neither officially commented, the two shared numerous moments together on social media over a two-year period.
In 2024, Toletti proudly represented France at the Paris Olympic Games, further adding to her remarkable sporting résumé.
Maëlle Lakrar: Cross-Continental Love and Rising Stardom
At just 15, Maëlle Lakrar launched her professional career, and she now wears both the French national team and Real Madrid jerseys. With 29 national appearances, the defender is also making headlines with her personal life. She is in a relationship with Canadian footballer Marie Levasseur, currently playing for Montpellier.
The couple recently shared a heartfelt post from their vacation, captioned, “Far apart, close at heart,” celebrating their bond despite busy schedules and international careers.
UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Celebrates Diversity and Equality
Running from July 2 to 27, the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 is more than just elite competition—it’s a celebration of inclusion and progress in sport. The visible and proud LGBTQ+ representation within the French squad, and across the tournament, reinforces the message that diversity and acceptance have a home in football at the highest level.