Paris, July 18 -- French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to the outgoing coach of the national football team, Didier Deschamps, thanking him for "legendary victories."

France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final ended with a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 semi-finals, making the third-place playoff against England the final match of Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure as France head coach.

In a post on X, Macron thanked Deschamps for his 14 years in charge of France, praising him for delivering legendary victories, unforgettable moments and leading a generation that made the nation proud.

"A page in the history of French football turns tonight. Thank you, Didier Deschamps, for the legendary victories, the i...