Didier Deschamps, who has been at the helm of the France national team since 2012, appears to be nearing the end of his tenure.
France coach Didier Deschamps confirmed on Wednesday he will leave the national team after the 2026 World Cup, saying it was time to stop.
The French soccer federation (FFF) told Reuters on Tuesday that Deschamps, who is France’s longest serving national team coach, will not seek to renew his contract which expires in 2026.
🚨 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Didier Deschamps has announced that he will leave his position as head coach of France in 2026. 🇫🇷👋
(Source: TF1) pic.twitter.com/Dlk6aD4muX
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 8, 2025
It is noted that Deschamps made his decision several months ago but now feels it is the right time to make it official and put an end to speculation about his future.
“In 2026 it will be over. In my head it’s very clear. I’ve done my time, with the same desire and passion to maintain France at the highest level but 2026 is (a) very good (time to stop),” Deschamps told TF1.
“One has to be able to say stop, there’s a life after this. The most important is for France to stay at the top as they have been for many years.”
Read: French goalkeeper joins Como on a contract valid until June 2028
During his time with the national team, Deschamps led France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and the 2020/21 Nations League. He also reached the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup.
