Tunisia Appoints Hervé Renard as New Coach Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Following a 5‑1 defeat to Sweden in their Group F opener, Tunisia promptly dismissed Sabri Lamouchi and named international coach Hervé Renard as his successor.

The 54‑year‑old manager had only stewarded the national side for five matches before the federation decided to act, citing the need for a fresh approach after the opening loss.

Renard was officially unveiled on June 16, giving him a mere five days to prepare Tunisia for a critical Matchday 2 encounter against Japan – a defeat that would eliminate the North Africans from the tournament.

Renard’s Extensive World Cup Experience

This will not be Renard’s first World Cup appointment. Tunisia marks the third national team he has led at the competition.

Herve Renard arrives before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F match between Tunisia and Japan. (Getty Images)

His World Cup credentials began with Morocco at Russia 2018, where the team earned a single point in the group stage. He then guided Saudi Arabia at Qatar 2022, notably defeating Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2‑1 in the opening fixture.

By taking the helm in 2026, Renard becomes only the second French manager to coach at least three different national teams at a World Cup, following Henri Michel’s record of four.

Renard’s Coaching Journey

The Frenchman boasts a diverse managerial résumé, spanning clubs in Europe and national teams across Africa and Asia.

Key appointments include:

• Cambridge United (England) – 2004
• AS Cherbourg (France) – 2005–2007
• Zambia National Team – 2008–2010 / 2011–2013
• Angola National Team – 2010
• USM Alger (Algeria) – 2011
• FC Sochaux (France) – 2013–2014
• Ivory Coast National Team – 2014–2015
• Lille OSC (France) – 2015
• Morocco National Team – 2016–2019
• Saudi Arabia National Team – 2019–2023 / 2024–2026
• Tunisia National Team – 2026‑Present

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