In June 2000, after filming together for Tranworld's "Modus Operandi", Mike Carroll decides that Brandon Biebel has to be part of Lakai. In April 2001 Scott Johnston's debut pro model is released and Danny Garcia joins the team. In November 2001, JJ Rousseau becomes Lakai's first official European rider, laying the foundation for what will eventually become The French Connection. In March 2002, after waiting for almost a year for his existing shoe contract to expire, Lakai welcomes Marc Johnson to the team. His first pro model comes out a little over one year later. Cairo Foster's first pro model comes out in December 2003. In January 2004, Lucas Puig and JB Gillet join the team, officially forming The French Connection.