The Phoenicians landed in Marseille 2600 years ago, founding the oldest city in France. It is possible that the people began their love affair with soccer then. But seriously, the 1 million residents of the port city are fanatical about soccer. Their t eam, Olympique Marseille, is the most successful team in French history with eight league titles and 10 French Cup titles. Marseille is important not only as a major Mediterranean port but as a cultural center. There is a terrific opera house and the Rola nd Petit National Ballet. The city of Marseille has had more than its share of trouble, including a bribery scandal which saw OM stripped of its European Cup title.

The entire stadium, which was built in 1937, was renovated for the World Cup with only the foundation staying intact. Le Stade Velodrome seats 60,000 and is located in the heart of this soccer-mad city.