The French Football Federation officially announced on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the appointment of Zinedine Zidane as the new head coach of the French national team.
French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo presented Zidane during a press conference held at the federation’s headquarters in Paris. The former Real Madrid manager will succeed Didier Deschamps, bringing an end to his 14-year tenure in charge of Les Bleus.
Diallo described Zidane’s appointment as an exceptional moment in the history of French football, highlighting the significance of handing the national team to one of the country’s most celebrated sporting figures.
The federation confirmed that Zidane had signed a four-year contract, which will officially take effect on August 1, 2026. His mandate will cover major international competitions, including the UEFA Euro 2028 qualifying campaign and the 2030 FIFA World Cup cycle. Zidane is expected to announce the members of his technical staff in early September.
Speaking at the press conference, Zidane expressed his pride and excitement at taking charge of France, describing the position as a long-held dream. He revealed that he had declined several club offers in recent years because coaching the French national team was the role he wanted most.
Zidane returns to coaching five years after leaving Real Madrid, where he enjoyed remarkable success, including three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles and two Spanish league championships.
The 1998 World Cup winner is expected to make his competitive debut as France coach in a UEFA Nations League match against Türkiye on September 25.
His appointment opens a new chapter for Les Bleus, with high expectations surrounding his ability to guide a talented generation of French players and build on the national team’s achievements under Deschamps.
