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The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has announced that it will not renew head coach Rudi Garcia’s contract beyond the 2026 World Cup. Despite guiding the Red Devils to the quarter-finals in North America, both Garcia and the federation have mutually agreed to part ways.

End of an eighteen-month tenure

Garcia’s contract, which runs until July 31, will not be extended. He stepped into the role on February 1, 2025, succeeding Domenico Tedesco. Under his direction, Belgium secured promotion to League A of the UEFA Nations League and earned qualification for the 2026 World Cup, where they advanced to the quarter-finals.

This decision concludes an 18-month spell in which Garcia was tasked with steadying a team in transition. Although Belgium displayed moments of brilliance during their World Cup campaign in North America, the RBFA has chosen to take a different path as preparations begin for the next qualifying cycle.

Reflecting on the World Cup campaign

Garcia’s final match was a dramatic encounter that left him feeling unfortunate due to injuries and contentious refereeing decisions. In Belgium’s 2-1 quarter-final loss to eventual champions Spain, the team had to manage without captain Youri Tielemans, who was sidelined by injury, while star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was forced to leave the field late in the game. Reflecting on his exit, Garcia expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the connections he formed with both 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.

“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.”

Mannaert commends Garcia’s contribution

RBFA Sports Director Vincent Mannaert praised Garcia’s positive impact during his brief spell in charge of the national team. He noted that Garcia’s appointment came at a particularly challenging time, when Belgium needed experienced leadership to guide them through a period of change.

“Rudi Garcia has unquestionably played a key role in revitalising the Belgian Red Devils. He was appointed national coach in a demanding sporting and financial context. Thanks to his commitment and experience, team unity was restored and a strong result was achieved at the most recent FIFA World Cup,” Mannaert said.

Looking ahead

Garcia’s departure comes at a significant juncture for Belgian football, with several members of the nation’s celebrated ‘Golden Generation’ likely having played their final matches in a major tournament. In the months ahead, Belgium will face high-profile home fixtures against France and Italy as part of their Nations League campaign. Mannaert confirmed that preparations for the team’s next phase, including the appointment of a new head coach, are already in progress.

“Together with my team, I am currently preparing for a new cycle, including the appointment of a new national coach,” Mannaert added.