Saudi Arabia Sack Coach Ahead of 2026 World Cup, as Herve Renard Replacement?

Saudi Arabia made a major decision ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) officially dismissed National Team Coach Herve Renard less than two months before the tournament begins.

This decision raises big questions. Renard had just returned to manage Saudi Arabia at the end of 2024 and successfully guided the country to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The dismissal feels even more surprising because Renard is no stranger to Saudi football. 

The 57-year-old French coach had previously managed The Green Falcons from 2019 to 2023.

During his first tenure, Renard was a key figure in restoring Saudi Arabia's international competitiveness. One historic moment came when he led Saudi Arabia to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

In that tournament, Saudi Arabia recorded a sensational 2-1 victory over Argentina—the team that ultimately became world champions. That result stands as one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

However, Renard's second spell ended abruptly amid preparations for the biggest event in World Football. Despite being fired, Renard responded calmly.

“That’s football. Saudi Arabia has qualified for the World Cup seven times, including twice with me,” he told Al Jazeera on Friday.

Renard is known as an experienced coach with an international reputation. He twice won the Africa Cup of Nations with different countries—Zambia and Ivory Coast.

His career continued at the Women's Football level. In 2023, he left Saudi Arabia to coach the French women's national team. Under his guidance, France reached the quarterfinals of the 2023 Women's World Cup and qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Afterward, Renard returned to Saudi Arabia, replacing Roberto Mancini—who lasted only about 14 months. This time, however, his tenure was far shorter than his first period.

Now, several names are being linked as potential replacements for Renard. SAFF must act quickly with the 2026 World Cup approaching.

In the upcoming tournament, Saudi Arabia is in Group H alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde. All their group stage matches will be played in the United States.

Saudi Arabia has appeared in seven World Cups. Their best performance came when they reached the Round of 16 at the 1994 World Cup.

Beyond national team preparations, Saudi Arabia is also building a major profile in global football. The country is confirmed to host the 2034 World Cup.