Tunisia has officially dismissed Sabri Lamouchi as head coach of the national team less than 24 hours after a humiliating 5-1 loss to Sweden in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Tunisian Football Federation confirmed the decision via Instagram, stating an agreement was reached to terminate Lamouchi’s contract. Frenchman Hervé Renard has been appointed as the new head coach on a deal lasting until the end of the World Cup.
Sabri Lamouchi Sacked as Tunisia Head Coach
The Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) made the stunning decision to sack Sabri Lamouchi on June 15, 2026, after just one match at the 2026 World Cup. Lamouchi, 54, became the first coach dismissed at the tournament.
The dismissal came following Tunisia’s worst-ever World Cup opening result: a 5-1 thrashing by Sweden in Monterrey, Mexico, on June 14.
Initially, the FTF announced Mondher Kebaier would serve as interim coach, but later replaced that announcement with Renard’s appointment.
Why Tunisia Decided to Sack Sabri Lamouchi
Primary Reasons for Dismissal
The 5-1 defeat “proved fatal” for Lamouchi’s position, according to Italian sports media.
Tunisian broadcaster Mosaique FM reported that turbulence during the return trip to the hotel worsened the coach’s embattled position.
Sabri Lamouchi’s Record with the Carthage Eagles
Full Tenure Statistics (January 2026 – June 2026)
Lamouchi was appointed on January 14, 2026, succeeding Sami Trabelsi, who was fired after Tunisia’s elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
His main mission was to lead Tunisia at the 2026 World Cup, but he lasted just one match.
Before Tunisia, Lamouchi managed the Ivory Coast (2012–2014), reaching the 2013 AFCON quarterfinals.
Tunisia FA Official Statement on Lamouchi’s Departure
The Tunisian Football Federation released this official statement via Instagram on June 15, 2026:
“An agreement has been officially reached to dismiss coach Sabri Lamouchi. Plans are under way to appoint Mondher Kebaier as the national team coach [on an interim basis].”
However, the federation later removed this Instagram post, creating uncertainty about Lamouchi’s status.
The FTF subsequently announced on Tunisian public television that Hervé Renard had been officially appointed as head coach until the end of the 2026 World Cup.
FTF President Moez Nassari confirmed Renard’s deal covers only the World Cup, with a longer-term agreement to be discussed afterward.
Tunisia Replacement: Hervé Renard Appointed
Frenchman Hervé Renard, who guided Saudi Arabia to a shock win against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, has been named Tunisia’s new head coach.
Renard’s contract extends until the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, commencing immediately.
He previously coached the French women’s team and has won AFCON twice with Zambia (2012) and the Ivory Coast (2015).
Key Facts and Important Updates
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Date of Sacking: June 15, 2026 (Monday)
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Match Result: Sweden 5–1 Tunisia (Group F, World Cup 2026)
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Location: BBVA Stadium, Guadalajara, Mexico
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First World Cup Sacking: Lamouchi is the first coach dismissed at the 2026 World Cup
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Lamouchi’s Tenure: Exactly 5 months (January 14 – June 15, 2026)
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New Coach: Hervé Renard, contract until the end of the 2026 World Cup
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Initial Interim Plan: Mondher Kebaier (coached Tunisia 2019–2022)
FAQ
Q. Why was Sabri Lamouchi sacked by Tunisia?
A. Lamouchi was sacked after Tunisia’s 5-1 World Cup loss to Sweden, his third loss in five matches, with only 1 goal scored and 11 conceded. A confrontation and reported brawl with players after the match sealed his dismissal.
Q. Who replaced Sabri Lamouchi as Tunisia coach?
A. Hervé Renard was appointed as Tunisia’s new head coach on June 15, 2026, on a deal lasting until the end of the 2026 World Cup.
Q. How long did Sabri Lamouchi coach Tunisia?
A. Exactly 5 months, from January 14, 2026, to June 15, 2026, he lasted just one World Cup match.
Q. What was Sabri Lamouchi’s record with Tunisia?
A. 1 win, 1 draw, 3 losses in 5 matches; 1 goal scored, 11 conceded. His only win was 1-0 against Haiti.
Q. Was Sabri Lamouchi the first coach sacked at the 2026 World Cup?
A. Yes, Lamouchi became the first coach dismissed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by 247 News Around The World
