Didier Deschamps to leave the French national team after 2026

The news of Didier Deschamps’ departure from the French national team has sent shockwaves through the football world. After leading Les Bleus since 2012, the 56-year-old coach has confirmed he will step down at the end of his contract in 2026.

This announcement, which will be made official during TF1’s Journal de 13 heures today, marks the end of an era for French football.

Deschamps’ tenure has been remarkable, spanning 14 years by the time he departs—a record for longevity as head coach of the French team.

Under his leadership, France played 165 matches, achieving 105 victories, 34 draws, and 26 defeats. Most notably, he guided the team to World Cup glory in 2018, adding to his legacy as both a player and coach.

Despite his success, recent years have seen increasing criticism of his tactics and squad selections, with some calling for a change.

However, sources like L’Équipe and Le Parisien report that Deschamps’ decision to step down was not driven by dissatisfaction or burnout. It was a calculated choice, hinted at privately over the past year.

Deschamps hopes to conclude his tenure with another World Cup triumph in 2026. As the countdown begins, the focus now shifts to who will step into his shoes and what lies ahead for Les Bleus.