French coach Hervé Renard has been appointed as the head coach of Côte d’Ivoire’s national football team, returning to the role six years after leading the team to victory in the 2015 African Cup of Nations. Renard replaces Emerse Faé, whose contract was not renewed following the recent FIFA World Cup.

Under Faé’s leadership, Côte d’Ivoire advanced to the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time in the nation’s history, marking their progress through four tournament appearances. The team’s run was halted in the round of 32 with a narrow 2-1 loss to Norway.

Renard’s return comes after a brief interim coaching stint with Tunisia during this year’s World Cup, where he stepped in on short notice. His reappointment reflects the Ivorian Football Federation’s confidence in his ability to build on the national team’s recent achievements and prepare them for upcoming international competitions.

The federation has yet to announce specific plans regarding Renard’s tenure or objectives, but his previous success with the Elephants sets a foundation for renewed ambitions on the continental and global stage.