Laurent Foirest has been appointed as France’s new captain, replacing Tony Parker.

After making the decision to dedicate more time to his NBA club San Antonio Spurs, Parker turned down the invitation to play in the Euro 2005 qualification campaign.

Foirest has 119 caps and appeared to be the natural choice to replace Parker, who captained the side during last year’s European Championships.

Meanwhile, 31-year-old Frederic Fauthoux, who has 19 caps to his name, has been appointed as vice-captain.

"The role of captain is not given enough priority in our sport," coach Claude Bergeaud said on the federation's official website www.basketfrance.fr .

"The captain is one of the key elements in the life of a group. He is essential in the way we work and to maintain the collective spirit."

The French team are currently in Pau where they are completing a four-day intensive training session before travelling to Germany to play in the Bamberg Supercup from August 20 to 22.

Bergeaud will name his final squad for the Euro 2005 qualifiers against Slovenia, Poland and the Czech Republic on August 29. The games will take place from September 8th to 25th.