Emerse Fae quits as Ivory Coast coach despite historic World Cup feat
The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) has announced that Emerse Fae has left his role as the national team coach despite leading the country to a round of 32 place at the 2026 World Cup.
The Federation confirmed his departure in a statement on Friday that the AFCON-winning manager’s contract has expired.
The statement read: “The contract of Mr Emerse Fae, head coach of the Ivory Coast national team, expired on July 31, 2026 and will not be renewed.”
Fae led Ivory Coast to the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations trophy after taking charge of the team midway through the tournament when Jean-Louis Gasset was sacked during the group stage.
Read Also: Okocha gets revenge over Portable in chaotic boxing rematch
He became the first manager in history to win a tournament after taking charge mid-competition.
He also guided the team to the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup in North America for the first time in their history before a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the round of 32.
The FIF praised Fae’s contribution to the national team, saying the progress and results under his leadership would remain “an important part of the recent history of Ivorian football.”
The federation said it would announce Fae’s successor as coach at a later date.
Fae recorded 24 wins, drew five and seven defeats in 36 matches. The team scored 60 goals and conceded 22 during his reign.
