Emerse Fae has left his position as coach of Ivory Coast after the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) confirmed that his contract had expired and would not be renewed.
The federation announced the decision on Friday, bringing an end to Fae’s time in charge of the national team after a period that included an Africa Cup of Nations triumph on home soil and qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
“The contract of Mr Emerse Fae, head coach of the Ivory Coast national team, expired on July 31, 2026 and will not be renewed,” the federation said in a statement.
Fae took charge during the Africa Cup of Nations two years ago after Jean-Louis Gasset was dismissed in the group stage. He was initially appointed on an interim basis, but his position was later made permanent after he guided the Elephants to the title.
Under Fae, Ivory Coast defeated Nigeria 2-1 in the final to claim their third continental crown. The victory completed a remarkable turnaround after the managerial change during the tournament and established Fae as the coach who led the team to success on home soil.
After being confirmed in the role, Fae also oversaw Ivory Coast’s progress through qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The Elephants reached the knockout phase of the tournament for the first time, before their campaign ended with a defeat by Norway in the last 32.
The FIF paid tribute to Fae’s work with the national team, acknowledging the progress made and the results achieved during his tenure.
The federation said his contribution would remain “an important part of the recent history of Ivorian football.”
Fae’s departure follows the expiry of his agreement rather than an immediate dismissal, with the federation confirming that it will not renew the contract. No replacement has yet been named.
The FIF said it would announce Fae’s successor at a later date. Until that announcement, the future direction of the national team remains undecided following the end of the coach’s tenure.
Fae’s spell in charge began in difficult circumstances, with Ivory Coast making a change in the dugout during the Africa Cup of Nations. He responded by taking the side through to the final and securing victory over Nigeria, giving the country its third Africa Cup of Nations title.
His subsequent work also ensured that the team qualified for the 2026 World Cup and made progress in the tournament itself. Although Norway ended Ivory Coast’s run in the last 32, the Elephants had advanced to the knockout phase for the first time.
The FIF’s statement therefore marked the conclusion of a period defined by major tournament success, World Cup qualification and an historic knockout-stage appearance. The federation now has to choose the coach who will lead Ivory Coast after Fae’s departure.
