Two national disputes have already threaten to disrupt the tournament with several more in the pipeline.

From the beginning of June, the state airline, Air France, has had to cancel almost all its flights because of a strike by pilots. The action is scheduled to last two weeks and although Air France have promised to safeguard travel for competing teams the same assurance has not been extended to fans.

One week earlier, French lorry drivers staged a day of road blocks and "go-slows" as part of their campaign for a wage increase.

The lorry drivers' militant Force Ourvriere (FO) union has not ruled out more stoppages during the World Cup.

Strikes by lorry drivers could lead to traffic problems

Other unions in the transport sector have also threatened to disrupt the high-profile tournament in an effort to win higher pay awards, which raises fears of widespread chaos during the World Cup.

French train drivers are threatening strike action on June 16, 17 and 18 - right in the middle of the opening round of matches.

And on Paris public transport, the powerful Communist-led CGT trade union has announced that railway, energy, construction and department store workers would stage nationwide protests on June 4 , warning it could be extended if demands are not met.

CGT leaders said the tournament must be a party for everyone and wage earners must not be left out.

"All must be done to make the World Cup a success, but if labour conflicts are justified then there will be conflicts," said Gilbert Stoquert, head of the CGT's transport branch.