What changed
2026-07-26 14:35 UTC → 2026-07-28 17:48 UTC ·
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Colombia post‑World Cup: coach tenure, tenure & player safety, Rodríg issues
After Following Colombia’s round‑of‑16 penalty loss to Switzerland at the 2026 World Cup, the federation continued to manage both kept managing leadership continuity and player safety. Midfielder Jaminton Campaz remained under police protection in the United States under police protection following after death threats, and while captain James Rodríguez stayed out of the public eye in Medellín amid speculation that the 2028 Copa América could be his last tournament. The federation’s Executive Committee confirmed on 22 July that head coach Néstor Néstar Lorenzo’s contract had been extended, reaffirming its support for his technical project as the team prepares for Copa América 2028 and the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. A a follow‑up announcement on 25 July detailed a four‑year extension, raising Lorenzo’s extension that raised his salary above the previous prior $2.4 million USD per year. The federation highlighted Lorenzo’s record – a 28‑match unbeaten run and 31 wins in 51 matches – and his role in a generational transition, integrating prospects such as Jhon Durán and Yaser Asprilla while retaining veterans like Luis Díaz. The new agreement also set a target of titles beyond qualification, focusing on Copa América 2028 and the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. On 28 July the federation clarified that the deal runs through the end of the 2030 qualifiers, adds a further 50 % salary increase to €3 million per year and includes an automatic extension if Colombia reaches the 2030 tournament. Media reports of a locker‑room dispute involving forward Jhon Durán and Lorenzo were publicly denied by both parties. Lorenzo’s longer‑term future remains linked to federation president Ramón Jesurún’s pending legal challenge, which could affect the coach’s tenure should a leadership change become necessary.