Belgium part ways with head coach Rudi Garcia after World Cup

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The Independent

20 July 2026

Belgium have confirmed they will not renew the contract of head coach Rudi Garcia, who bows out from the role after the 2026

World Cup

Garcia took

Belgium

to the quarter-finals of the competition, where they

lost to eventual winners Spain

after a late error from substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens proved costly.

His future nevertheless remained in doubt after an unconvincing tournament, which saw the Red Devils top the group but only after playing out underwhelming draws with Egypt and Iran.

They then required late heroics to avoid a last-32 exit to Senegal, coming from two down to win 3-2 in extra time, before overcoming the disadvantage imposed on them by the

Folarin Balogun saga

to dump out co-hosts USA.

Rudi Garcia will part ways with

after the expiry of his contract (Getty)

The 62-year-old Frenchman’s deal runs out at the end of July and will part ways after 18 months in the role.

"After discussions with the RBFA, we have decided not to extend the excellent journey we have shared over the past 18 months,” Garcia said in a statement.

“I leave

in League A of the Uefa Nations League and among the top eight teams in the world.

“I would like to thank my outstanding group of players, sports director Vincent Mannaert, and the fans who supported us throughout this

. I wish

every success as they continue the generational transition that I was proud to help initiate."

Mannaert added: “Rudi Garcia has unquestionably played a key role in restoring the Belgian Red Devils.

“He was appointed national coach in a challenging sporting and financial context. Thanks in particular to his commitment and experience, team cohesion was restored and a strong result was achieved at the most recent Fifa

“On behalf of the federation, I would like to warmly thank Rudi and his assistants for the past 18 months.

“Together with my team, I am currently preparing for a new cycle, including the appointment of a new national coach.”

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