With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just months away, the Brazil national football team has taken a decisive step in shaping its long-term future. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has offered current head coach Carlo Ancelotti a new contract extending his tenure through to the 2030 World Cup. Ancelotti has accepted the proposal, and the formal agreement is expected to be signed within days.
Since taking charge last summer, following his tenure at Real Madrid, Ancelotti had been the subject of speculation regarding a return to European club football. The CBF’s proactive move has effectively ended those rumours. At 66, Ancelotti has reached a verbal agreement that, once formalised, will see him become the longest-serving foreign coach in the history of Brazil’s national team.
The 2030 World Cup will be hosted across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with several group-stage matches taking place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. The new contract not only secures Ancelotti’s tactical leadership but also signals an intention to instil a cultural shift within the squad.
Contract Details
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2026–2030 World Cup |
| Annual Salary | Approximately €1 million |
| Performance Bonuses | Increased compared to previous terms |
| Base Locations | Rio de Janeiro and Vancouver (to balance family commitments) |
CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues has emphasised the importance of this long-term approach, stating that it reduces uncertainty following the 2026 tournament.
Brazil’s recent history had been marked by instability. During the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, the team finished fourth, and morale fell after former coach Dorival Júnior was dismissed. Ancelotti’s appointment has already brought stability, with Brazil recording four wins, two draws, and two losses in his first eight matches—a clear reflection of the so-called “Carletto Effect.” The strong rapport he has established with players such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Militão has notably boosted team confidence.
Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Brazil will participate in pre-tournament friendlies in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, facing France and Croatia. These fixtures are expected to test both the coach and the squad before the main event.
The overarching goal remains Brazil’s sixth World Cup triumph, following their last victory in 2002. By implementing a long-term plan under Ancelotti’s guidance, the CBF hopes not only to compete effectively in 2026 but also to sustain leadership continuity into the 2030 tournament.
This landmark decision sends a clear message: Brazil is planning not just for a single tournament, but for sustained success on the world stage.