Renard Steps Down as Saudi Arabia Coach after Notable Spell
Saudi Arabia’s national football team is set to begin a new chapter following the resignation of head coach Hervé Renard, bringing an end to a tenure that spanned more than three and a half years.
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) confirmed on March 29 that it had accepted Renard’s resignation, closing a period widely regarded as one of the most memorable in the team’s recent history.
Appointed in July 2019, Renard guided Saudi Arabia to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where the team delivered a stunning 2-1 victory over eventual champions Argentina national football team in their opening match—marking the nation’s first-ever win in a World Cup opener. However, subsequent defeats to Poland national football team and Mexico national football team saw Saudi Arabia exit at the group stage.
During his time in charge, Renard also led the team to the top of Group B in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualifiers with 23 points, securing consecutive World Cup appearances and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation in Asian football.
The Frenchman, who previously won the Africa Cup of Nations with Zambia national football team and Ivory Coast national football team, departs with a legacy of historic achievements and enhanced competitiveness.
SAFF expressed appreciation for Renard’s contributions and extended its best wishes for his future, as it begins the search for a successor to build on his progress.
