The 2026 World Cup has suddenly taken a backseat for the French team. Just days before their final group match against Norway, head coach Didier Deschamps faced a family tragedy. The French Football Federation announced on Tuesday the passing of his mother, prompting the French coach to temporarily leave the Blues’ training camp to return to France for the funeral. This exceptional absence will prevent him from leading his team in the match scheduled for Friday, which is part of the third day of Group I in the 2026 World Cup.
In an official statement, the French Football Federation clarified that Didier Deschamps would not be able to conduct training sessions leading up to the match against Norway, nor occupy his usual spot on the bench. This decision was made in agreement with the president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, who is present with the French delegation in the United States. Concerned about respecting the privacy of the Deschamps family during this painful time, the governing body of French football also called for the utmost discretion surrounding this personal event.
To ensure the continuity of the team, the responsibility has been handed over to his loyal assistant, Guy Stéphan. A key member of the coaching staff for many years, he will take charge of training and lead the team in the clash against Norway. Used to working in the shadows of the head coach, Guy Stéphan knows the squad and the Blues’ methods inside out. His experience should help the team maintain stability despite the unusual circumstances surrounding this match.
On the sporting front, this absence comes at a rather favorable time for the French team.
The Blues have kicked off their World Cup campaign perfectly with two convincing wins against Senegal (3-1) and Iraq (3-0). These results have already secured their qualification for the knockout stage before the final day. The duel against Norway will now determine the final group standings and could allow the French to finish at the top of their group before heading into the knockout matches.
This personal trial comes at a significant moment in Didier Deschamps’ career. In charge since 2012, the former captain of the Blues is currently competing in his last tournament as head of the national team. After fourteen years filled with numerous successes, including the World Cup title in 2018, he has already announced that he will step down after the 2026 World Cup. His tenure as head of France will remain one of the most remarkable in the history of French football.
Didier Deschamps will not be able to conduct training before the Norway-France match. He will also not be present on the bench Friday for the Blues’ final match in Group I (9 PM local time).
The national coach has faced the pain, this Tuesday morning,… pic.twitter.com/Mqi67B0tJF
— FFF (@FFF) June 23, 2026
In light of this loss, many messages of support have quickly poured in from the football world and fans. During this mourning period, thoughts are primarily with Didier Deschamps and his loved ones. As the Blues continue their World Cup journey, the entire French squad hopes to pay tribute to him in the best possible way on the pitch, by pursuing their campaign with seriousness and ambition until his return to the team.
