Didier Deschamps, the longest-serving coach in France’s national football history, has confirmed that his tenure will end after the 2026 World Cup. The World Cup-winning coach announced his decision, signaling the end of an era for Les Bleus.
The French Football Federation (FFF) informed Reuters on Tuesday that Deschamps, whose contract expires in 2026, does not intend to extend his stay as head coach. The former defensive midfielder had previously signed an extension with FFF after the Qatar World Cup, securing his position until the next global tournament.
Speaking on the French TV channel TF1, Deschamps cited his decision as a natural conclusion to his tenure. He stated, “In 2026, it will end. I am very clear about this with myself. I’ve been performing my duties with the same passion and desire to keep France at the top level, but 2026 feels like the right time to stop.”
He further added, “Everyone should be in a position to decide when to stop. Life goes on beyond football. The most important thing is to keep France at the top, as it has been for many years.”
Deschamps took charge of the French national team in 2012, succeeding his former teammate from the 1998 World Cup-winning squad, Laurent Blanc. Since then, he has led France to several remarkable achievements. Under his guidance, France reached the final of the 2016 European Championship, although they lost. Two years later, they lifted the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In 2021, they also won the UEFA Nations League.
Before stepping into international football coaching, Deschamps enjoyed success at every club he managed, earning numerous titles. In the 2022 Qatar World Cup, he once again guided France to the final, only to lose to Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout.
As Deschamps prepares for his final tournament in charge, his legacy remains firmly etched in French football history, with a career marked by passion, consistency, and an unyielding drive to succeed at the highest level.
