Didier Deschamps steps down as France coach after World Cup third‑place loss

After France were beaten 6‑4 by England in the bronze‑match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Didier Deschamps announced his resignation, ending a 14‑year tenure that saw France win the 2018 World Cup and the Nations League. Deschamps said the “environment had become unbearable” and took personal responsibility for the defeat, promising to hand the role to a successor, with Zinedine Zidane mentioned as a leading candidate. French President Emmanuel Macron posted a public thank‑you on X, praising Deschamps’ contributions to French football.

In the same tournament, striker Kylian Mbappé finished as top scorer with ten goals, becoming the first player to win the Golden Boot at two World Cups and moving to 22 career World Cup goals, overtaking Lionel Messi’s record.

The French Football Federation (FFF) faces scrutiny over internal disputes, player welfare issues and financial matters, but the team remains highly rated heading into future competitions.