Didier Deschamps Confirms Departure as France Coach After 2026 World Cup

Didier Deschamps, the iconic coach of the French national football team, has announced that he will leave his role after the 2026 World Cup. After more than a decade at the helm, the 55-year-old has decided it will be the right moment to bring his tenure to an end, paving the way for a new era in French football.

“In 2026, it will be over,” Deschamps told TF1 in a candid interview. “I’ve done my time, with the same desire and passion, but 2026 is a very good time to stop. There’s a life after this. The most important thing is for France to remain at the top.”

A Golden Era for Les Bleus

Deschamps took charge of the French team in 2012, succeeding Laurent Blanc. Under his leadership, France enjoyed an extraordinary run, including winning the 2018 World Cup in Russia and claiming the 2021 Nations League title. His guidance also saw the team reach the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup, although they fell short in both tournaments.

With over a decade of success, Deschamps leaves a lasting legacy, becoming only the third individual to win the World Cup as both a player and a manager. His tenure cemented France’s position among the elite in international football.

Zidane as the Likely Successor

While Deschamps has set the timeline for his departure, the French football federation has refrained from speculating about his replacement. However, Zinedine Zidane, Deschamps’ former teammate and another 1998 World Cup hero, is widely regarded as the favorite to take over.

Zidane has expressed a long-standing desire to manage Les Bleus and boasts an impressive coaching resume, having led Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles. He has been without a managerial role since leaving Madrid in 2021, making him a prime candidate for the position.

French Football Federation’s Stance

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, emphasized that discussions about a successor are premature. “Didier has a two-year contract, and out of respect for him, his staff, and the players, the question of his succession does not arise today,” Diallo stated.

As France prepares for the next chapter, Deschamps remains focused on maintaining the team’s dominance on the global stage until his final tournament in 2026.

• Deschamps Departure: Didier Deschamps will step down as France’s coach after the 2026 World Cup.
• Achievements: Deschamps led France to the 2018 World Cup title, the 2021 Nations League, and three major tournament finals.
• Zidane in Line: Zinedine Zidane is considered the leading candidate to replace Deschamps, with an outstanding coaching career at Real Madrid.
• Official Stance: The French Football Federation will not discuss succession until closer to Deschamps’ departure.
• Legacy Focus: Deschamps aims to keep France at the top of international football before ending his illustrious tenure.