Zinedine Zidane has been appointed head coach of France’s national football team, the French Football Federation confirmed in social and official statements. The 54-year-old former France player and Real Madrid coach has signed a contract running through 2030, beginning a new chapter for French football.

Zidane succeeds Didier Deschamps, who left after France were eliminated by Spain in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. French media had identified Zidane as a likely successor following Deschamps’ departure, and the federation has now formally handed the French dugout to the former national-team star.

As a player, Zidane won the World Cup with France in 1998. His coaching record at Real Madrid includes three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. He had remained away from coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, making this appointment his return after a five-year break. His stated focus is to rebuild France under a long-term plan and pursue new trophies through 2030.