From left to right: Alou Diarra, Yann Mvila, Florent Malouda and Abou Diaby

After France's colossally disastrous World Cup debacle in South Africa over the summer, they sacked coach Raymond Domenech, banned several players and now, they've even dumped long-time kitmaker adidas.

The new Nike kit (which is very reminiscent of the simple yet classic England white World Cup kit) was unveiled in Paris on Monday and features the phrase "Nos Differences Nous Unissent" (our differences unite us) stitched behind the FFF badge on the shirt. This isn't entirely a reminder for the players before they resume their cliquey infighting, though. "Nike and the FFF are jointly committed to supporting the work of the Fondation du Football in using football as a vehicle to promote the positive aspects of diversity in society," the press release states.

France coach Laurent Blanc seems to like it:

"This jersey represents the spirit of French elegance, something recognized all over the world. The true collar, the new blue, the addition of the red really enhance the new kit. It goes well with the philosophy I want to create: creativity, humbleness and ambition."

Yes, nothing says humbleness like making a point to mention that world-renowned French elegance. Aside from that, Blanc's comments do bring an interesting question to mind. Namely, what would a kit that goes with Raymond Domenech's philosophy look like? My guess is a ripped loincloth covered in astrological signs. 

Anyway, the new kit comes along with a new TV spot. Video and explanation right this way...

The dramatic voiceover to the TV spot is the poem from the famous *Duel* scene in the play Cyrano de Bergerac, narrated by French hip-hop artist Oxmo Puccino. The spot draws a parallel between the duel scene, in which Cyrano confronts a prince who dared threaten him, and French footballers at different levels competing against their opponents.

Through the verse, the audacity, creativity and freedom of French football is expressed. Those talents are expressing themselves in various places, Clairefontaine for the French team, but also the playgrounds of Belleville, Marseille and La Courneuve for the amateur players.

So there you have it. New kit, new look, no Domenech. 

From left to right: Yann MVila, Abou Diaby, Florent Malouda and Alou Diarra

For more info and pictures, check out The Beautiful Gear.