With the squad on the way from the airport, thousands line the streets next to the Elysee Palace

Eventually they arrive and proceed inside for a lunch reception hosted by President Jacques Chirac

Chirac greets Zinedine Zidane and praises him for his positive contribution during the World Cup and throughout his career

After meeting the remainder of the squad, the president and other leading French dignitaries pose for a group photo

As they exit the palace, there is time for autographs with coach Raymond Domenech more than happy to oblige

The team's next port of call is the Crillon Hotel on the Place de la Concorde where many more fans gather in anticipation

Once inside, the players make their way to the grand balcony at the front of the building to salute the crowd

David Trezeguet, who missed a crucial penalty in the final, breaks down as he is presented to the fans

Despite defeat, France's fans remain buoyant and can now look forward to their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign