France relied on their trademark flair to outplay Italy 46-20 in Paris and stay firmly on course for a grand slam in the Six Nations rugby championship.
The home side ran in six tries including two from centre David Marty and earned 16 points from the reliable boot of scrumhalf Morgan Parra.
Italy, who had recorded a rare win over Scotland in their previous outing, had to be content with two penalties from wing Mirco Bergamasco and late consolation tries from substitutes Carlo Del Fava and Pablo Canavosio, both converted by Bergamasco.
France will chase their first victory in the championship since 2007 and their first grand slam since 2004 when they host England on the same Stade de France pitch next weekend.
Yesterday England and Scotland drew 15-all and Ireland beat Wales 27-12.
