Belgium have confirmed the departure of head coach Rudi Garcia after deciding not to extend his contract following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) announced that Garcia’s deal, which expires on July 31, will end after both parties agreed to go their separate ways despite Belgium reaching the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Garcia was appointed in February 2025 to replace Domenico Tedesco and spent 18 months in charge of the Red Devils.
Garcia reflects on Belgium spell
The French coach thanked the Belgian federation, players and supporters after his exit was confirmed.
“After discussions with the RBFA, we have decided not to extend the excellent journey we have shared over the past 18 months,” Garcia said.
“I leave Belgium in League A of the UEFA Nations League and among the top eight teams in the world.
“I would like to thank my outstanding group of players, Sports Director Vincent Mannaert, and the fans who supported us throughout this World Cup. I wish Belgium every success as they continue the generational transition that I was proud to help initiate.”
Garcia’s final match was Belgium’s 2-1 quarter-final defeat to eventual champions Spain, a game in which captain Youri Tielemans missed out through injury while Kevin De Bruyne was forced off late in the contest.
Federation begins search for successor
Belgium sporting director Vincent Mannaert praised Garcia’s contribution, saying he helped restore stability during a difficult period for the national team.
“Rudi Garcia has unquestionably played a key role in restoring the Belgian Red Devils,” Mannaert said.
“He was appointed national coach in a challenging sporting and financial context. Thanks in particular to his commitment and experience, team cohesion was restored and a strong result was achieved at the most recent FIFA World Cup.”
Mannaert confirmed preparations for Belgium’s next chapter are already underway.
“Together with my team, I am currently preparing for a new cycle, including the appointment of a new national coach,” he added.
Belgium now begin the search for a new manager ahead of upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against France and Italy, with the team also preparing for a new era as several members of the country’s celebrated “Golden Generation” approach the end of their international careers.
