The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has confirmed that head coach Rudi Garcia’s contract will not be extended beyond the 2026 World Cup.
Garcia led Belgium to the quarter-finals in North America but that has failed to get him a contract extension. Both parties have agreed to part ways just hours after Spain defeated Argentina to win the trophy.
Appointed 18 months ago, Garcia’s contract will expire on July 31. He will now be allowed to leave despite securing Belgium a place in League A of the UEFA Nations League and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
While the team under Garcia showed flashes of brilliance during the tournament in North America, the federation has decided to move in a different direction as they look towards the next qualification cycle.
Rudi Garcia speaks to Belgium players at a hydration break during the FIFA World Cup 2026 . (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Reflecting on his departure, Garcia expressed gratitude for the opportunity and the relationships he built with the players and staff.
“After discussions with the RBFA, we have decided not to extend the excellent journey we have shared over the past 18 months. I leave Belgium in League A of the UEFA Nations League and among the top eight teams in the world,” Garcia said.
Vincent Mannaert, the sports director for the RBFA, was vocal about the positive influence the French tactician had during his short stint with the national team. Mannaert highlighted that Garcia was brought in at a time when the team needed experienced leadership to navigate a challenging landscape.
“Rudi Garcia has unquestionably played a key role in restoring the Belgian Red Devils. 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 noted.
Mannaert also confirmed that the search for Garcia’s successor is already underway.
“Together with my team, I am currently preparing for a new cycle, including the appointment of a new national coach,” he added.
