Tunisia set to announce Hervé Renard as new head coach after Sabri Lamouchi's dismissal
Tunisian football authorities have moved quickly to reshape their technical leadership following a heavy 5–1 defeat to Sweden at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with French coach Hervé Renard expected to be confirmed as the country’s new head coach.
Renard has accepted the role and is set to replace Sabri Lamouchi, who was dismissed in the aftermath of the result.
An official announcement is anticipated within hours, ahead of Tunisia’s next group fixture against Japan.
The appointment marks another chapter in Renard’s long and highly successful association with African football.
The 56-year-old has now been linked with a fifth national team on the continent, having previously managed Zambia, Angola, Côte d'Ivoire and Morocco.
Renard is widely celebrated for his achievements on African soil, most notably guiding both Zambia and Côte d'Ivoire to Africa Cup of Nations glory in landmark triumphs that cemented his reputation as one of the continent’s most influential modern coaches.
For Tunisia, the move signals a decisive attempt to stabilise their World Cup campaign and inject fresh leadership after a damaging opening result.
The timing is critical, with the team still facing key fixtures that will determine their chances of progressing from the group stage.
Lamouchi’s exit comes amid growing pressure following the heavy loss, which exposed defensive vulnerabilities and raised questions about Tunisia’s tactical approach at the tournament. His dismissal ends a short and turbulent spell in charge.
Renard’s arrival is expected to bring immediate attention to structure, discipline, and organisation—hallmarks of his coaching philosophy that have previously delivered success on the international stage.
With the tournament still in its early phase, Tunisia will be hoping the change in leadership provides a rapid response as they prepare to face Japan in what is now a pivotal group encounter.