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
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