Herve Renard has stepped down as Tunisia's manager after a tenure of only 18 days, which began during the team's 2026 World Cup campaign.
Renard, 57, took over the managerial position following the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi after Tunisia's opening 5-1 loss to Sweden. However, his leadership did not alter the team's fortunes, as they went on to lose their subsequent matches 4-0 against Japan and 3-1 against the Netherlands.
In a statement, Renard expressed his gratitude to the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) for the opportunity to participate in the World Cup. "It was an honour to wear Tunisia’s colours and to live this unforgettable experience," he said. "I wish this Tunisian team the best for the future. I am convinced that it will continue to grow, to thrill an entire nation, and to write brilliant chapters in its history." He concluded by thanking those who accompanied him, stating, "My journey is coming to an end."
The team's prior campaign under Lamouchi was marked by controversy. Reports circulated about a scuffle in the team hotel after the defeat to Sweden, allegedly involving Lamouchi's son and a supporter. Lamouchi addressed these reports, clarifying that his son had no official role in team selections and was present in a personal capacity.
Renard brought considerable international experience to the role, having previously managed at two World Cups with Morocco and Saudi Arabia. Notably, he guided Saudi Arabia to a victory against eventual champions Argentina in the 2022 tournament. In 2023, Renard coached the France women's team to the quarter-finals of their World Cup. His international coaching career also includes successes with Zambia and Ivory Coast, winning the Africa Cup of Nations with both nations in 2012 and 2015, respectively. Earlier in his career, he had a brief spell managing Cambridge United.