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Jun 23, 2026 Major3
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France Coach Deschamps to Miss Norway Match After Mother's Death
France manager Didier Deschamps will return to France to attend his mother's funeral and miss the team's final group stage match against Norway on June 26. Assistant coach Guy Stéphan will temporarily assume leadership of the squad, which has already qualified for the knockout stage.
Quick Facts
Who
Didier Deschamps
What
Deschamps' mother died
When
Tuesday, June 23 morning (when Deschamps learned of death)
Where
Massachusetts, USA (match venue)
- Deschamps' mother died
- Deschamps will return to France for funeral
- Deschamps will miss Norway match
- Guy Stéphan will take temporary charge
- France advanced to knockout stage
France national team coach Didier Deschamps will miss his side's final group stage match against Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the death of his mother. Deschamps learned of his mother's passing on Tuesday morning and has decided to return to France to attend her funeral. The French Football Federation announced the decision and confirmed that assistant coach Guy Stéphan will take temporary charge of the squad for the match scheduled for June 26 in Massachusetts.
The 57-year-old Deschamps, who previously announced his intention to step down as France coach after the tournament concludes, has led Les Bleus through a successful group stage. France has won both of its opening matches, defeating Senegal 3-1 and Iraq 3-0, and has already secured advancement to the knockout stage with six points. Norway, also undefeated with six points, has similarly qualified for the next round.
The French Football Federation expressed its support for Deschamps during this difficult time, stating that the entire organization stands behind him. Stéphan will assume full responsibility for team management during the final group match. The federation did not specify when Deschamps is expected to return to the United States to rejoin the team.
Deschamps' departure marks a significant moment during what will be his final World Cup as France's head coach. He led the team to World Cup victory in 2018 and guided them to the final in 2022, where they lost to Argentina on penalty kicks after a dramatic match.
Why This Matters
This moment underscores the human dimensions of elite sport—even at the highest competitive levels, personal tragedy takes precedence. For France's World Cup campaign, it represents continuity and stability: with the squad already qualified and an experienced assistant ready, the team maintains focus on knockout competition while respecting Deschamps' family priorities. For fans, it marks a poignant chapter in Deschamps' farewell tournament after 14 years leading Les Bleus to two World Cup finals.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 23, 2026
WireDidier Deschamps learns of his mother's death
Jun 23, 2026
WireFrench Football Federation announces Deschamps will miss match against Norway
Jun 26, 2026
WireFrance vs Norway World Cup group stage match scheduled in Massachusetts