The 2026 FIFA World Cup has not only produced surprises on the pitch but has also claimed its first managerial casualties, with three national team coaches leaving their positions following disappointing performances.
Tunisia’s Sabri Lamouchi became the first coach to lose his job at the tournament after he was dismissed following his side’s heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening Group F match.
The Tunisian Football Federation acted swiftly after the humiliating loss, replacing the former Ivory Coast coach with Hervé Renard in a bid to revive the team’s campaign. Lamouchi’s dismissal marked the earliest managerial sacking in World Cup history, coming after just one game.
Scotland manager Steve Clarke also departed after his team’s failure to progress beyond the group stage.
Clarke stepped down shortly after Scotland’s elimination was confirmed, bringing an end to his lengthy spell in charge. Before the tournament, the 62-year-old had indicated that failing to reach the knockout rounds could signal the end of his tenure.
