Hervé Renard returns as Ivory Coast coach, 11 years after Africa Cup of Nations win

Appointment announced

On Tuesday, the Ivorian football federation (FIF) confirmed the return of Hervé Renard as head coach of the national team. The 57-year-old Frenchman replaces Emerse Fae, whose contract was not renewed after the 2026 World Cup. Renard is expected in Abidjan in the coming days to officially take up his duties and will be presented at a press conference.

“African champion with Ivory Coast in 2015, Mr Hervé Renard returns to the helm of the Elephants with the mission of leading the national team in the preparation and participation in upcoming international competitions.”

Renard's Ivorian legacy

Renard previously coached Ivory Coast from 2014 to 2015, culminating in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations title in Equatorial Guinea. That victory ended a nearly 25-year drought for the Elephants and cemented his popularity in the country. The team, featuring Yaya Touré, beat Ghana in the final on penalties.

Recent Tunisia interlude

Renard's most recent job was a brief emergency stint with Tunisia during the 2026 World Cup. He took over after a 5-1 defeat to Sweden cost Sabri Lamouchi his job. Under Renard, Tunisia lost 4-0 to Japan and 3-1 to the Netherlands, exiting the tournament without a point. He was free after that short-term contract.

Fae's departure

Emerse Fae, who led Ivory Coast to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations title on home soil and guided them to the World Cup round of 32 for the first time, was not retained. The federation opted for a change despite those achievements.

A career across Africa

Renard has built a reputation as a specialist in African football. He won the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations with Zambia, a surprise triumph, and also coached Angola, Morocco (taking them to the 2018 World Cup), and Saudi Arabia. His return marks his second spell with the Elephants.