France made its second appearance in Olympic water polo in 1912; it was the nation's first showing since 1900.

The 1912 French team had little success, losing to Sweden and then Belgium to be eliminated from the tournament.

Jean Bouin set a new Olympic record in the 5000 metres in the semifinals, holding it only until the final.

Louis Ségura, the defending bronze medalist, earned the silver in the individual all-around.

(The scoring system was point-for-place in each of the five events, with the smallest point total winning.)

It was the nation's third appearance in sailing, in which France had competed each time the sport was held at the Olympics.

France's single boat took the gold medal in the six metre class, winning a two-boat race-off after tying in the standings after the first two races.

The indoor men's doubles pair also won, giving Gobert two gold medals.

Broquedis had a second medal, taking the bronze along with Canet in the outdoor mixed pairs.

Canet finished with a pair of bronzes, his other one coming in partnership with Mény in the men's outdoor doubles.