Algeria have officially parted ways with head coach Vladimir Petkovic despite handing the experienced manager a contract extension before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Algerian Football Federation confirmed that both parties reached a mutual agreement to end their working relationship after the country’s World Cup campaign. Petkovic leaves his position just months after signing a new deal, bringing an end to his spell in charge of the Desert Foxes.
The 62 year old took over as Algeria coach in 2024 following the departure of Djamel Belmadi. During his time in charge, he led the national team in 33 matches across all competitions, recording 23 wins, five draws and five defeats.
Petkovic guided Algeria to the quarter finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before securing qualification for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
At the World Cup, Algeria advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third placed teams after collecting four points in Group J. Their campaign included an entertaining 3-3 draw against Austria, which proved crucial in their qualification.
The Desert Foxes reached the World Cup knockout rounds for only the second time in their history. However, their journey ended in the Round of 32 after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland at BC Place.
Confirming the decision, the Algerian Football Federation said: “The Algerian Football Federation announce that their contractual relationship with the national team head coach, Mr. Vladimir Petkovic, and his coaching staff has officially come to an end today, on a mutual agreement between the two parties.”
Petkovic’s departure marks the beginning of a new era for Algerian football. Team captain Riyad Mahrez also announced his international retirement following the country’s World Cup exit, closing an outstanding chapter with the national team.
Mahrez ends his international career as Algeria’s second most capped player with 119 appearances and the country’s second highest scorer with 40 goals.
Algeria must now begin preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which kick off in September. The Desert Foxes have been drawn in Group I alongside Zambia, Togo and Burundi as they prepare for life under a new head coach.
