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Didier Deschamps signs contract extension to manage France until 2026 World Cup after Qatar heartbreak… ending speculation about his future
- Didier Deschamps agreed to a contract extension to remain France manager
- Deschamps is ready to lead the national team in the next two major tournaments
- The 54-year-old had been considering his future after the World Cup final loss.
- Deschamps has been in charge of the French national team since 2012
Didier Deschamps has agreed to a contract extension to remain as coach of the France national team until the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.
The French Football Federation confirmed that Deschamps’ new deal will run until the end of June 2026, which will take him until the conclusion of the next World Cup.
The extension will see Deschamps lead the French team at the next two major tournaments, having led Les Bleus since 2012.
Didier Deschamps has agreed a four-year contract extension as France coach
The French Football Federation confirmed the extension, praising Deschamps’ exceptional record with the national team.
Deschamps led France to their second World Cup triumph at the 2018 tournament in Russia, before falling agonizingly short of retaining their crown in Qatar.
France were beaten on penalties by Argentina in the final, after a thrilling 3-3 draw after extra time.
Deschamps also led France to the Euro 2016 final, as well as winning the Nations League in 2021.
Deschamps had admitted that he had been considering his future after the World Cup final loss.
He will remain in charge of the national team for the next two major tournaments, with qualifying beginning in March for Euro 2024 in Germany.
Deschamps’ contract would put him on course to lead France to a fourth consecutive World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026.
His assistant Guy Stephan, goalkeeping coach Franck Raviot and physical trainer Cyril Moine will also remain in their posts.
French Football Federation president Noel Le Graet, who appointed Deschamps in 2012, expressed his desire to keep the 54-year-old in the role.
Le Graet held talks with Deschamps last month, with the official even hinting that the coach could lead the team to the 2030 World Cup.
Contract talks reportedly focused on the option of a two-year contract for Euro 2024, with the possibility of extending to the 2026 World Cup, as well as a four-year contract.
Deschamps reportedly pushed for a four-year contract, according to Le Parisien, which has now been agreed.