Hervé Renard has been appointed as the new head coach of the Tunisia national football team, taking over ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage match against Japan. The French manager, known for his previous successes with Zambia and Ivory Coast, replaces Jalel Kadri.
The Tunisian Football Federation confirmed the appointment on June 20, 2026, citing Renard's experience in African football and his ability to motivate teams in high-pressure tournaments. Renard led Zambia to the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations title and Ivory Coast to the 2015 title.
Tunisia are drawn in Group E of the 2026 World Cup, alongside Japan, Spain, and a yet-to-be-determined playoff winner. Their opening match against Japan is scheduled for June 25, 2026, at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Qatar.
Renard stated, 'I am honored to lead this talented Tunisian squad. We have a difficult group, but I believe in the players' potential to compete at the highest level.' The team will face Spain on June 30 and the playoff winner on July 4.