Venezuela has sacked head coach Fernando Batista and his entire backroom staff after the country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes were ended by Colombia.
Presidential Intervention
The dismissal came less than 24 hours after President Nicolás Maduro publicly demanded changes to the national team’s technical setup.
“Yesterday we suffered a painful defeat,” Maduro said.
“All of Venezuela demands a restructuring of the technical staff of La Vinotinto, a reorganisation of the strategy, and renewed hard work.”
Colombia Defeat Ends World Cup Dream
Venezuela, known as La Vinotinto, suffered a crushing 6-3 defeat to Colombia on home soil. The result ended their bid to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in history.
Hopes had been high following FIFA’s decision to expand the 2026 World Cup from 32 to 48 teams. But the loss allowed Bolivia, who stunned Brazil with a 1-0 victory, to secure the playoff spot instead.
Venezuela’s Qualification Struggles
Despite flashes of promise, Venezuela’s qualification run lacked consistency. They remain the only CONMEBOL nation yet to appear at a World Cup finals, extending a long history of disappointment.
Peru Also Dismiss Coach
Venezuela was not alone in making changes. Peru also parted ways with coach Oscar Ibanez after finishing their qualification campaign with just two wins, six goals scored, and ten defeats from 18 matches.
What Lies Ahead for Venezuela?
With Batista gone, Venezuela faces another rebuilding phase. The football federation is expected to appoint a new head coach in the coming weeks as the team prepares for upcoming competitions.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
