Yasser Al-Misehal, president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, revealed important and surprising details regarding the real reason behind the absence of the Saudi national team's coach, Frenchman Hervé Renard, from leading the Green Falcons in their upcoming match, and his presence instead in Washington, D.C. Al-Misehal explained that this absence came about through direct intervention from the highest football authority in the world.
In televised remarks on Al-Ekhbariya channel, Al-Mishal confirmed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally requested Hervé Renard's attendance at the 2026 World Cup draw and workshops. Al-Mishal said: "FIFA President Infantino requested Hervé Renard's attendance at the 2026 World Cup draw because of the important technical workshops being held there," noting that this invitation reflects the great importance FIFA places on communicating with top coaches in preparation for the global event.
Hervé Renard's presence in Washington means he will be absent from the Saudi national team's technical area during their upcoming match against Comoros in the second round of the group stage of the 2025 Arab Cup, currently being held at the World Cup venues, specifically Education City Stadium. The Green Falcons began their campaign with a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Oman, which strengthens the team's confidence in overcoming Comoros even without their head coach.
The importance of the 2026 World Cup and early preparations
The workshops and draw for the 2026 World Cup are of exceptional importance, as this edition will be the first in history to feature 48 teams instead of 32, and will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA is keen to have coaches and technical directors present at this early stage to discuss the new regulations and the complex logistical arrangements required for a tournament of this continental scale, which explains Infantino's insistence on Hervé Renard's presence to review all the technical details.
The international standing of Saudi football
The personal request from the FIFA president for the Saudi national team coach to attend reflects the growing prominence of Saudi football on the global stage. Following their impressive and historic performance at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, including a resounding victory over Argentina, the Saudi national team and their coach have become the focus of international attention. Participation in these workshops is part of the Saudi Football Federation's long-term strategy to ensure the best possible preparation for major international competitions. Officials are striving to ensure the Saudi national team is fully prepared, both technically and administratively, to keep pace with global developments in the game.
