Since Regis's wife was an American citizen, an option to play for the United States appeared.
Steve Sampson, the U.S. national coach, jumped at the chance of having an experienced left back on the World Cup squad (though Regis's preferred position was always center back – where he was most successful in his club career), and promised Regis a starting position on the team if he became a U.S. citizen. Regis was
naturalized on May 20, 1998, and received his first
cap against
Kuwait just three days later. Regis received the starting spot from Sampson, in front of long-time starter
Jeff Agoos. Regis played all three matches in the World Cup, and despite being one of the more effective players for the US, the Americans lost all three of their group matches. Regis made the U.S. roster for the
2002 FIFA World Cup as well, but did not play at the tournament. He retired with 27 caps. == Coaching career ==