The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has confirmed it has begun a comprehensive review of the national team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, while delaying any decision on the future of head coach Vladimir Petkovic.
In a detailed statement issued following Algeria’s Round of 32 elimination, the federation acknowledged the tournament ended below expectations but stressed that the Desert Foxes‘ return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence represented an important milestone in the country’s long-term rebuilding project.
The announcement comes amid mounting speculation surrounding Petkovic’s position. Although reports have linked the Swiss coach with a possible departure, the FAF confirmed no decision has been made, with Petkovic currently on leave until the end of July while the evaluation process continues.
Federation launches full World Cup assessment
The FAF said its Federal Bureau will only determine the team’s future after completing a thorough review of both sporting and organisational aspects of Algeria’s World Cup participation.
“The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) expresses its regret following the national team’s elimination in the Round of 32 of the World Cup. This result fell short of the fans’ expectations. Nevertheless, Algeria’s return to the final stages of the competition, after a twelve-year absence, represents a significant step in the process of rebuilding and developing national football,” the statement said.
The federation added that it fully understood supporters’ disappointment but emphasised that qualification for the tournament should be viewed as part of a broader development strategy rather than the final objective.
According to the FAF, the review will examine every aspect of the campaign to identify lessons learned, shortcomings that require attention and measures needed to strengthen the national team in the future.
No immediate decision on Petkovic
While Petkovic’s future has become the subject of intense debate following Algeria’s exit, the federation made it clear that no decision will be rushed.
“True to its responsibilities, the Federation has undertaken a comprehensive and objective evaluation of this participation. This analysis will cover all sporting and organizational aspects in order to clearly identify the lessons learned, the shortcomings to be addressed, and the measures to be implemented to sustainably strengthen the competitiveness of our national team,” the statement continued.
The federation also reaffirmed its commitment to long-term reforms across Algerian football, highlighting ongoing improvements in governance, financial management, infrastructure, youth development, women’s football, futsal, refereeing and administrative digitalisation.
FAF condemns abuse and misinformation
Alongside its sporting assessment, the federation also addressed the reaction following Algeria’s World Cup exit.
While welcoming constructive criticism, the FAF condemned what it described as campaigns of abuse, misinformation and personal attacks directed at individuals and the institution.
“The Federation respectfully welcomes all objective and constructive criticism formulated in the interest of national football,” the statement read.
However, it added: “The FAF condemns in the strongest possible terms hate speech, disinformation campaigns, attempts to manipulate public opinion, personal attacks, and any form of incitement to division or verbal violence. Freedom of expression can in no way justify insults, defamation, threats, or attacks on the dignity of individuals and institutions.”
Call for unity
The federation concluded by urging unity across Algerian football, insisting that sustained success can only be achieved through stability, patience and long-term planning rather than emotional reactions.
The FAF said the Federal Bureau will announce its decisions once the evaluation has been completed.
