The Czech national team remains without a coach for the 2026 World Cup. Slaven Bilič, one of the main candidates, rejected FAČR's offer and returned to the Croatian national team. Czechia is currently 4th in the group with 1 point (0 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses) and a goal difference of -4. The last result was a 1-0 win over San Marino (November 13, 2025).

Why did Bilič reject Czechia?

Bilič had been in contact with FAČR for six months but publicly stated in December 2025: “Czechia is not my choice.” Despite meeting with Pavel Nedvěd, he did not change his stance. The Croatian federation offered him an annual salary of around one million euros, which exceeded Czechia's negotiation level. Bilič himself said he is not joining for the money but to lead his own national team.

What are the other options for Czechia?

FAČR turned to Luboš Kozel, Radoslav Kováč, and Jan Suchopárek. Nedvěd is looking for a “strong personality with international experience,” but financial reality limits them. The Czech federation has lower revenues than comparable Central European competitors. Currently, Czechia is 8 points behind Mexico, which leads the group.

What’s next?

Czechia is preparing for the next match against Croatia (September 26, 2026). Nedvěd must find a new coach who can improve results. The team has been unbeaten in the last two matches (1 win, 1 draw).