Deschamps confirms he will leave as France's head coach after 2026 World Cup

Deschamps confirms he will leave as France's head coach after 2026 World Cup

France's head coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed on TF1 that the 2026 World Cup will be his final tournament as manager of the French national team.

Deschamps said, "I started coaching the national team in 2012, and I plan to continue until the 2026 World Cup. But that will be the end, because there’s always a moment to finish. It’s very clear in my mind."

"I still have the same desire and passion to fight for the highest level for France. When good things happen, we never want them to stop, but we must also know when to say ‘stop.’ Life continues after that, and although I don’t know what it will be like, it will be good."

Deschamps, 56, was appointed head coach of the French national team in July 2012. His contract runs until July 31, 2026, marking 14 years at the helm of the national team.

Currently, Deschamps has managed 166 matches, with a record of 106 wins, 31 draws, and 29 losses. Under his leadership, France finished as runners-up in the 2016 UEFA European Championship, won the 2018 World Cup, the 2021 UEFA Nations League, and were runners-up again in the 2022 World Cup.