Didier Deschamps to leave France after 2026 World Cup
Didier Deschamps has confirmed that his time in charge of France will come to an end after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable spell that transformed Les Bleus into one of international football's most consistent forces.
The 56-year-old, who has been France's head coach since 2012, revealed that the decision had already been made and that he sees the upcoming tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico as the final chapter of his international coaching journey.
Speaking about his future, Deschamps stated that his mind was already made up and that while the passion for coaching remains intact, he believes there is a right time to step away.
His departure will end a 14-year reign that has produced major success and established France among football's elite nations.
A historic era for France
Deschamps leaves behind one of the most decorated managerial records in modern international football. His greatest achievement came at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he guided France to their second world title after a convincing final victory over Croatia.
He also steered France to the final of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Les Bleus pushed Argentina to penalties in one of the most memorable World Cup finals in history.
Additional achievements during his tenure include:
- Reaching the final of UEFA Euro 2016 on home soil
- Winning the UEFA Nations League
- Consistently guiding France deep into major international competitions
Deschamps has also become France's longest-serving national team manager, a reflection of both results and long-term stability.
Exclusive company: World Cup winner as player and coach
Deschamps occupies rare territory in football history. He is among only a select few to have won the World Cup both as a player and as a manager. As captain, he lifted the 1998 FIFA World Cup trophy before adding the UEFA Euro 2000 title two years later.
Before managing France, Deschamps also enjoyed successful spells at club level, winning trophies with teams across Europe and building a reputation as a leader capable of delivering results.
What comes next for France?
With the end now officially scheduled, attention will inevitably shift toward who could eventually replace Deschamps after the World Cup.
France continue to possess one of the strongest talent pools in international football, with players such as Kylian Mbappé expected to form the core of the next generation.
For now, however, Deschamps still has one final mission: attempting to guide France to another World Cup title before stepping away.
The 2026 tournament will not only represent France's latest bid for global success, but it will also mark the closing chapter of one of the most influential managerial eras in the country's football history.
SportsLigue
