Steve Clarke has stepped down as Scotland head coach following the country’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to his seven-year spell in charge.
The Scottish FA confirmed Clarke’s resignation shortly after Croatia’s 2-1 victory over Ghana ended Scotland’s hopes of progressing to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
BBC Scotland reported that Clarke informed his players of his decision on Saturday while the squad remained at its training base in Charlotte.
His departure comes only a month after signing a new four-year contract.
World Cup campaign ends in disappointment
Scotland began their Group C campaign with a 1-0 victory over Haiti in Boston before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Morocco.
Their hopes of reaching the knockout stage were dealt a major blow by a 3-0 loss to Brazil in Miami, leaving them dependent on results elsewhere.
Those slim hopes officially disappeared after Croatia defeated Ghana on Saturday, confirming Scotland’s exit from the tournament.
In his farewell message, Clarke thanked his players for their commitment throughout his tenure.
“The most emotional part of this goodbye is for my players, without whom we wouldn’t have had any of the memories that we’ve accumulated from 2019 until now,” Clarke said.
“They deserve all the praise and adulation that they receive and it was truly an honour to be called their gaffer.
“Thanks for having me and good luck to my successor.”
Seven-year reign comes to an end
Clarke took charge of Scotland in 2019, ending the nation’s long wait for major tournament football by guiding them to two European Championships and the 2026 World Cup.
Although Scotland qualified for three consecutive major tournaments under his leadership, they failed to progress beyond the group stage in each of them. Their 1-0 victory over Haiti earlier this month was the team’s only win across those tournament appearances.
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell paid tribute to Clarke’s achievements despite the World Cup disappointment.
“While we are all disappointed to have exited the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve’s seven years in charge,” Maxwell said.
“From starting as a pot four team in 2019 to topping our World Cup qualifying group, he has more than delivered on the remit to take Scotland back to a major tournament.
“We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that when the disappointment of World Cup elimination subsides, the Scotland supporters will be thankful for the memories of marching with pride at major tournaments once again.”
