In a surprising move just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, Saudi Arabia has parted ways with head coach Hervé Renard. The decision comes despite the Frenchman successfully guiding the Green Falcons through the qualification process for the tournament in North America.

Renard, a revered figure in international football known for his iconic Africa Cup of Nations triumphs with Zambia and Ivory Coast, was in his second stint with Saudi Arabia. He first led the team at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they famously stunned eventual champions Argentina. After a brief period coaching the France women's national team, he returned in late 2024 to replace Roberto Mancini.

Reflecting on his departure, Renard expressed pride in his unique achievement. "Saudi Arabia have qualified for the World Cup seven times, including twice with me," he stated. "And there's only one coach who has led them through both the qualifiers and the World Cup; that's me, in 2022."

With the clock ticking toward their Group H opener against Spain, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is reportedly in talks to appoint Georgios Donis as his successor. The former Greece international currently manages Saudi Pro League side Al Khaleej.

The timing adds immense pressure, as Saudi Arabia faces a daunting "Group of Death" with former champions Spain and Uruguay, plus debutants Cape Verde. All their group stage matches will be played in the United States, a country where they achieved their best-ever World Cup finish—a round of 16 appearance in 1994.

This leadership change marks a pivotal moment for a nation with soaring football ambitions, not only for the 2026 tournament but also as the future host of the 2034 World Cup. The new coach will have a tight window to instill his philosophy and prepare the team for one of global football's toughest challenges.