1 hour ago
2
Didier Deschamps, the 57-year-old head coach of the French national football team, has left the 2026 World Cup in the United States to return to France following the death of his mother. The French Football Federation confirmed the news on June 23, 2026.
Deschamps received the tragic news on the morning of June 23 and immediately sought permission from FFF president Philippe Diallo to attend the funeral. Diallo granted compassionate leave, and Deschamps departed the team’s World Cup camp.
What happens to France’s World Cup campaign
France’s final group-stage match against Norway is scheduled for June 26, and Deschamps is expected to miss it entirely.
In his absence, assistant coach Guy Stéphan will take over management duties for the squad.
The FFF has not specified when Deschamps might return to his coaching responsibilities.
Deschamps’ legacy with Les Bleus
Deschamps has been at the helm of the French national team since 2012. His crowning achievement came in 2018, when he guided Les Bleus to the FIFA World Cup title in Russia.
That victory cemented his status as one of the most successful figures in French football history. He had already captained France to their first World Cup triumph in 1998, making him one of only three people to win the tournament as both player and manager.
What this means for the tournament and beyond
Stéphan has extensive experience working alongside Deschamps, including through the 2018 World Cup triumph and multiple European Championship campaigns.
The FFF’s decision to activate compassionate leave protocols without hesitation sends a clear message about organizational values. Philippe Diallo did not attach conditions or timelines, at least not publicly.
The FFF’s silence on a specific return date suggests they’re leaving that decision entirely in his hands.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
English (US) · 