Official: Hervé Renard appointed as new coach of the Ivory Coast Elephants

The suspense didn’t last long. Just three days after Emerse Faé’s departure, the Ivorian Football Federation has named his successor. Hervé Jean-Marie Roger Renard is the new head coach of the Ivory Coast Elephants.

Maintaining momentum

In its official statement, the Ivorian Football Federation explained its choice of Hervé Renard: “This appointment reflects the Federation’s desire to build on the achievements of the national team in recent years, while continuing to pursue the ambitions set for Ivorian football both on the African and international scenes.”

Africa Cup of Nations champion with Côte d'Ivoire in 2015, Renard returns “tasked with leading the national team in preparing for and participating in upcoming international competitions.”

The next major challenge—qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations—is fast approaching and kicks off in September. After his brief stint with Tunisia at the 2026 World Cup, Hervé Renard succeeds Emerse Faé, whose contract was not renewed after he led the team to a direct knockout from the World Cup—a historic first.

Hervé Renard yet to arrive in Abidjan

During his first spell with the Elephants between July 2014 and May 2015, the French coach led Côte d'Ivoire in 18 matches, recording nine wins, five draws, and four losses. “Mr. Hervé Renard is expected to arrive in Abidjan in the coming days to formally assume his duties,” the Federation added. He will be officially presented to the media at a press conference.

A true expert in African football

The former Saudi Arabia coach’s reputation on the African continent is second to none. He has lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy twice—guiding Zambia to the title in 2012 before delivering Côte d'Ivoire their second continental crown in 2015.

Renard has also managed Morocco, Angola, and Algerian club USM Alger. “Thanks to his experience at the top level, his deep knowledge of African football, and his special connection to Ivorian football,” wrote the Federation, “Renard will be tasked with sustaining the current momentum.”

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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