Didier Deschamps to Step Down as France Manager After 2026 World Cup

Didier Deschamps, the longest-serving manager of the French national football team, has confirmed he will step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 56-year-old manager has led France since 2012, achieving remarkable success during his tenure.

Deschamps, a World Cup winner both as a player and manager, stated his decision in an interview with French broadcaster TF1. “In 2026 it will be over. In my head, it’s very clear,” he said. “I’ve done my time, with the same desire and passion to maintain France at the highest level. One has to be able to say stop; there’s a life after this.”

Under Deschamps’ guidance, France has consistently remained one of the world’s top teams:

• Led Les Bleus to their second World Cup title with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Moscow.
• Reached the final in Qatar, narrowly losing to Argentina in a penalty shootout after a dramatic 3-3 draw.
• Took France to the final on home soil, where they were defeated by Portugal in extra time.
• Secured the title with a victory over Spain.

Deschamps’ journey as France’s manager began after their quarter-final exit at Euro 2012. He succeeded Laurent Blanc and quickly re-established France as a football powerhouse, qualifying for the 2014 World Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals.

The former midfielder also achieved historic milestones as a player, winning the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 while captaining his country. He is one of only three individuals—alongside Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer—to win the World Cup as both player and manager.

France’s journey to the 2026 World Cup will begin after their Nations League quarter-final against Croatia in March, which will determine their qualifying group. Deschamps emphasized his commitment to maintaining France’s status as a football giant during his final years in charge.

“I want France to stay at the top as they have been for many years,” he said.