Istanbul / Ahmed Hasan / Anadolu

The Belgian Football Association announced Monday it would not renew the contract of Frenchman Rudi Garcia, head coach of the national team, days after the team was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup.

The association said on its website: "Rudi Garcia and the Belgian Football Association will not extend the contract that expires on July 31, 2026."

Garcia (62) took over as coach of the Belgian national team on February 1, 2025, succeeding Domenico Tedesco, on an 18-month contract.

The French coach led Belgium in 20 matches, recording 12 wins, 6 draws, and 2 losses.

Under his leadership, the Belgian team secured its place in the top tier of the UEFA Nations League and also qualified for the 2026 World Cup.

Belgium exited the World Cup in the quarterfinals after a 1-2 loss to Spain, which later won the title.

With the end of his contract, Garcia will become the 17th coach to leave his post among the coaches of teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, an unprecedented record.

Garcia previously coached Roma, Lyon, Al Nassr, and Napoli.