Saudi Arabia have relieved head coach Herve Renard of his duties, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure less than two months before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 57-year-old Frenchman confirmed his departure in an interview with AFP on Friday, expressing mixed emotions over the decision while reflecting on his contributions to the national team.
“That’s football,” Renard said, noting his role in Saudi Arabia’s qualification history. “They have qualified for the World Cup seven times, including twice under me. I remain the only coach to lead them through both the qualifiers and the tournament, which gives me a sense of pride.”
Renard had returned for a second spell in charge in late 2024 after previously managing the team between 2019 and 2023.
During his first stint, he guided Saudi Arabia to a memorable victory over eventual champions Argentina national football team at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
A highly respected figure in African football, Renard is a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner, having lifted the title with Zambia national football team and Ivory Coast national football team.
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He also had a spell with the French women’s national team, reaching the quarter-finals of both the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games.
Renard’s return to the Saudi dugout came after the exit of Roberto Mancini, who endured a difficult 14-month spell in charge.
Reports indicate that former Greece international Georgios Donis is being considered as a potential replacement, with discussions said to be ongoing between the Saudi football authorities and his current club, Al Khaleej.
Saudi Arabia are scheduled to compete in Group H at the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Spain national football team, Uruguay national football team, and Cape Verde national football team.
The timing of Renard’s departure raises fresh questions about the team’s preparedness as the tournament approaches, with the federation now under pressure to appoint a suitable replacement swiftly.