Didier Deschamps to step down as France coach after 2026 World Cup

In Paris, France, it was confirmed that Didier Deschamps will not continue as the national football coach after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. This announcement comes as Deschamps has been in charge since July 2012, leading the team to numerous significant accomplishments, including a triumph in the 2018 World Cup where they defeated Croatia in the final. Under his leadership, the French national side also reached the Euro 2016 final, which they lost to Portugal, and they again made it to the 2022 World Cup final, ultimately succumbing to Argentina. Deschamps holds the distinction of being the longest-serving official coach for France, having made an indelible impact on the team’s history and success. In 1998, he was part of the squad that clinched France's first World Cup victory as a player, making his journey through the national team particularly notable. A source close to the team revealed the details of his impending departure on January 7, 2025, coinciding with reports from major French media outlets like L’Equipe and RMC Sport. On this upcoming Wednesday, he is expected to confirm his decision during an interview with Brigitte Macron, thus marking a significant transition in French football leadership as preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With European qualifying set to begin later this year, the focus will now shift to the next coach of the French national team following Deschamps’ departure. This change has potential implications for the future performance of the team, as the new coach will need to adapt to the current dynamics and ensure that France remains competitive on the international stage.