Saudi Arabia Sack Hervé Renard Two Months Before World Cup

Hervé Renard has been dismissed as head coach of Saudi Arabia with immediate effect, just two months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Renard had guided Saudi Arabia to qualification for the tournament, finishing top of their group in the fourth round of qualifying on October 14, 2025.

Despite securing qualification, a poor run of results in 2026 contributed to the decision, including a 4-0 defeat to Egypt and a 2-1 loss to Serbia in friendly matches.

Renard previously managed Saudi Arabia from July 2019 to March 2023, a spell highlighted by a historic 2-1 victory over Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.