London, United Kingdom – February 12, 2026 — Thomas Tuchel has extended his tenure as head coach of the England national football team after signing a new contract that will keep him in charge through to the end of the 2028 UEFA European Championship, the Football Association (FA) confirmed on Wednesday.
The German tactician, who took over as England manager in late 2025 following the departure of Gareth Southgate, has committed his future to the Three Lions until the conclusion of Euro 2028, which will be jointly hosted by the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. The new deal represents a significant show of faith from the FA in Tuchel’s vision and leadership, especially after a mixed but promising start to his reign.
Tuchel, 52, was appointed in November 2025 on an initial contract running through the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the tournament itself in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His early tenure has included strong performances in the Nations League and World Cup qualifying campaign, though England suffered a disappointing group-stage exit at the 2025 UEFA Nations League finals.
In a statement released by the FA, Tuchel expressed his delight at committing long-term to the role:
“I am honoured and excited to continue this journey with England. The players, staff, and supporters have shown incredible belief and passion, and I am fully committed to bringing success to this team. Euro 2028 on home soil is a massive motivation — we want to give the nation something to be proud of.”
FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham praised Tuchel’s impact since arriving:
“Thomas has brought clarity, tactical discipline, and a winning mentality to the group. Extending his contract gives us stability and continuity as we build toward the World Cup and the historic opportunity of hosting Euro 2028. We are confident he is the right man to lead England to major honours.”
Tuchel’s new deal reportedly includes performance-related bonuses tied to major tournament progress, as well as clauses allowing for mutual review after the 2026 World Cup. Sources close to the negotiations suggest the contract is among the most lucrative in England’s managerial history, reflecting the FA’s determination to secure long-term leadership following years of turnover.
The German coach has already stamped his authority on the squad, implementing a more pragmatic yet attacking style that has seen improved defensive organisation and greater tactical flexibility. Players such as Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane have spoken positively about Tuchel’s man-management and attention to detail.
England’s upcoming fixtures include crucial World Cup qualifiers in March and June 2026, followed by the expanded 2026 World Cup in North America. A successful campaign there would set the stage for Tuchel to lead the team into Euro 2028 as one of the tournament favourites on home soil.
The extension has been broadly welcomed by fans and pundits, though some have questioned whether Tuchel — known for short, intense spells at clubs such as Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich — will adapt to the longer-term demands of international management.
Tuchel himself addressed those concerns in his first interview since the contract signing:
“International football is different. It’s about patience, building relationships, and planning over years rather than months. I’ve learned a lot already, and I’m excited to keep growing with this team.”
The FA also confirmed that assistant coaches Anthony Barry and Anthony Barry will remain part of the backroom staff, ensuring continuity in the coaching setup.
As England prepare for their next international window, Tuchel’s extended tenure provides clarity and stability at a pivotal moment in the national team’s development. With Euro 2028 on the horizon, the pressure is now on the German coach to deliver silverware — and to finally end England’s long wait for a major trophy since 1966.
