Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland head coach shortly after Scotland’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup was confirmed. Ghana’s defeat to Croatia ended Scotland’s hopes of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.
Clarke leaves after seven years in charge and a record 81 matches, having become the first men’s head coach to take Scotland to three major tournament finals. The World Cup campaign began with a 1-0 win over Haiti, but defeats to Morocco and Brazil left Scotland waiting on other results before their exit became official.
His tenure will be viewed through two competing lenses: a period that restored regular major-tournament appearances, and a run that still did not deliver a knockout-stage breakthrough. Scotland’s return to the World Cup was their first since 1998, following back-to-back European Championship qualifications.
In a message to supporters, Clarke reflected on pride in the job, the players’ commitment and the renewed bond between the national team and the Tartan Army. The next decision for Scotland is whether to build on his continuity-focused approach or use the change to reset the squad’s direction.
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