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Didier Deschamps, head coach of the French national team, will return to France and miss his side's final 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage match against Norway after the death of his mother.
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The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed on Tuesday that Deschamps learned of his mother's passing that morning. He has been granted compassionate leave to travel home and attend the funeral.
In his absence, long-time assistant coach Guy Stéphan will take charge of the team for Friday's Group I clash at Gillette Stadium. France currently top the group following a strong start to the tournament.
France coach Didier Deschamps to miss World Cup match against Norway following mother's death
The FFF expressed its condolences, stating that the national team coach was deeply saddened by the news. Deschamps, who led France to World Cup glory in 2018 and a runner-up finish in 2022, is expected to rejoin the squad if they advance beyond the group stage.
Meanwhile, France recently beat Iraq 3-0, all thanks to a brace from Kylian Mbappe and a goal by Ousmane Dembele. Tributes have poured in across the football community, with many stating that family comes before the game.
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