The French Football Federation have paid tribute to departing head coach Didier Deschamps following his final match in charge of the French national team.
Deschamps’s team bowed out of the FIFA 2026 World Cup in fourth place following a chaotic 6-4 defeat to England, after their title hopes ended with a 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain.
The head coach famously lifted the World Cup with France as both a player. He also led the nation to the 2021 Nations League crown and final appearances at Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup final.
He leaves his post after 185 matches and 120 victories in charge.
“Didier Deschamps embodied high standards, rigour, a sense of the collective and love for the blue shirt,” the FFF said in a statement.
“Under his leadership, for 14 years, the France team regained credibility, respect and affection while remaining at the highest level in the world.
“Beyond the 185 matches played and 120 victories, Didier Deschamps passed on a culture of performance and responsibility that will remain a benchmark for generations to come.
“He nurtured the emergence of numerous internationals, united several squads around strong values, and helped strengthen the unique bond between the French people and their national team.
“Captain of the 1998 World Cup-winning team and the 2000 European Championship winners, then World Cup-winning coach twenty years later, Didier Deschamps holds a singular place in the history of French football. Few will have given as much to the blue jersey, first as a player and then as a coach.
“The Federation and its employees salute his availability and commitment. His imprint will remain indelible, at Clairefontaine as in the hearts of the millions of supporters and volunteers he never forgot.
“Few will have given as much to the blue shirt, as a player and then as coach.
“The FFF wishes to express its infinite gratitude to him.
“Thank you, Didier,” the FFF said.
