Bermuda’s French community celebrated as their team claimed the World Cup trophy yesterday.

Dozens of supporters packed the Boundary Sports Bar at the Fairmont Southampton Hotel and waved French flags as France secured a 4-2 win against Croatia.

Among the cheers were the sound of a bugle, played by Marc Morabito, the president of L’Alliance Française.

Mr Morabito said the original World Cup, the Jules Rimet Trophy, was French.

He added: “We’re all very happy that the trophy is coming home.

“I had some doubts in the first half, but the French played well and came into their own in the second half.”

Serge Leibowitch, who wore an afro-wig with the blue, white and red stripes of the French flag, said he was proud to see France take the trophy.

Mr Leibowitch said: “It means we are the best in the world for the next four years.

“We weren’t doing very well in the first half, but I think that was part of the plan. They wanted Croatia to come to us.”

He added: “It’s great to see all of the Frenchmen in Bermuda come together and winning It feels amazing.”

Nicole Haziza, honorary French Consul to Bermuda, said it was a wonderful day to represent France.

She said: “It’s a very proud day, and I’m happy to be able to come out with all of the Bermudian French. I think we are all just filled with joy.

“With this coming so soon after Bastille Day on Saturday, this is just a wonderful weekend for us.”

Marie Berengere Chapoton, hotel manager at Fairmont Southampton, said she was thrilled to have the Boundary Sports Bar become the home of French supporters during the World Cup.

She said: “The World Cup is something that brings everyone together.

“Four years ago I was living and working in Brazil, so I have seen how important the World Cup is, wherever you are from.”