Belgium on the hunt for new coach after Garcia departs

Rudi Garcia has left his role as head coach of Belgium

Belgium on the hunt for new coach after Garcia departs

Belgium have parted ways with head coach Rudi Garcia.

The Red Devils reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup before losing to eventual winners Spain, but were largely unimpressive outside of the 4-1 hammering of the United States in the round of 16.

Garcia’s contract expires at the end of July and the two parties have mutually opted against an extension.

The 62-year-old said: “After discussions with the Royal Belgian Football Association (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 Nations League and among the top eight teams in the world. 

“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.”

Belgium chief hails Garcia for restoring team cohesion

Garcia took over from Domenico Tedesco in February 2025 and helped them avoid relegation to League B of the Nations League thanks to a 4-3 aggregate win over Ukraine in the play-offs.

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

“On behalf of the federation, I would like to warmly thank Rudi and his assistants for the past 18 months.

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