Belgium searches for new coach, Garcia steps down after World Cup exit

Rudi Garcia will leave his role as Belgium coach at the end of this month, after reaching a mutual agreement with the Royal Belgian Football Association to not extend his contract.

The 62-year-old Frenchman guided the Red Devils to the quarterfinals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where they fell to eventual champion Spain 2-1. Garcia, who replaced Domenico Tedesco in February 2025, will officially step down when his current deal expires on July 31.

Belgium's World Cup campaign sparked mixed reactions. The Red Devils opened with draws against Egypt and Iran, before sealing first place in Group G with a 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand. They then staged a dramatic comeback from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 in the round of 32, before eliminating tournament co-host the USA 4-1 to reach the last eight.

Despite the quarterfinal showing, Garcia faced persistent criticism throughout the competition over his tactical decisions. His choice to take out goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in the second half against Spain drew particular attention, although the coach later explained that the veteran goalkeeper had experienced a muscle issue and could not continue to play at full strength.

Royal Belgian Football Association sports director Vincent Mannaert thanked Garcia for helping restore stability to the national squad after a difficult period, praising his role in rebuilding squad cohesion and guiding Belgium to a strong World Cup result. Garcia, meanwhile, said he was proud to have helped launch the team's generational transition and thanked the players, staff and supporters for their backing over the past 18 months.

Mannaert will now lead the search for the team's next coach, before the Red Devils resume their UEFA Nations League campaign later this year with matches against Italy and France.