Saudi Arabia fires World Cup 2026 coach Herve Renard

Saudi Arabia Relieves Coach Herve Renard Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

The Saudi Arabian football federation has announced that it will be parting ways with coach Herve Renard, effective immediately. The decision comes less than two months before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Renard, a 57-year-old Frenchman, had previously held the position from 2019 to 2023 and returned for a second stint at the end of 2024. Prior to his appointment with Saudi Arabia, he led Zambia and Ivory Coast to AFCON victories.

According to Renard, “That’s football… Saudi Arabia have qualified for the World Cup seven times, including twice with me.” He expressed pride in having led the team through both the qualifiers and the World Cup.

Renard had previously served as coach of the France women’s team from 2023 to 2024, where he reached the quarterfinals of both the 2023 Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Former Morocco coach Georgios Donis is reportedly being considered for the position.

Saudi Arabia will face Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde in Group H at the 2026 World Cup. The team has made six World Cup appearances, with a round of 16 finish in 1994 being their best result thus far. Renard’s departure marks the end of his tenure as Saudi coach, which began just over a year ago.

Source: Al Jazeera