Hervé Renard Returns to Ivory Coast | The Elephants Bring Back a Winner
Ivory Coast's national football federation has made one of the biggest coaching decisions in African football this year, confirming the return of Hervé Renard as head coach more than a decade after he delivered the country's first AFCON title in 23 years.
From AFCON Hero to Second Homecoming
Renard first took charge of the Elephants between 2014 and 2015, famously ending Ivory Coast's long wait for continental glory with victory at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea. The 57-year-old Frenchman has since coached across the continent and beyond, including spells with Zambia (where he won AFCON 2012), Morocco, Ghana, Angola, Saudi Arabia, and the France women's national team. His most recent role was a brief interim stint with Tunisia during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Now he's back where his African legacy began.
Why Ivory Coast Made the Change
Renard replaces Emerse Faé, whose contract was not renewed despite a strong run of results - including the 2024 AFCON title on home soil and Ivory Coast's best-ever World Cup finish, a Round of 16 appearance in 2026. Faé's exit surprised many observers given that track record, but the federation opted for experience and continental pedigree as the team turns toward its next cycle.
What's Next for the Elephants
Renard is expected to arrive in Abidjan shortly to begin preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which get underway in September 2026. His familiarity with the squad, the football culture, and the pressure that comes with coaching one of West Africa's most demanding federations makes him a high-profile, symbolic appointment rather than a rebuilding project.
For fans and analysts tracking African international football, the return of the "White Wizard" instantly raises the profile of Ivory Coast's qualifying campaign - and adds another storyline to a year that has already delivered plenty of managerial drama across the continent.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Appointed: August 4, 2026 - Replaces: Emerse Faé (contract expired July 31, 2026) - Previous Ivory Coast spell: 2014-2015, won AFCON 2015 - Other AFCON title: Zambia, 2012 - Next assignment: 2027 AFCON qualifiers, starting September 2026