Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland’s head coach following the team’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending his seven-year tenure in charge.

Axar.az reports, citing The Guardian, the 62-year-old’s departure was announced shortly after Scotland’s exit was confirmed.

Clarke had signed a new four-year contract extension before the tournament but decided to step down after the team failed to reach the knockout stage.

Scotland finished third in Group C with three points after a 3-0 defeat to Brazil, a narrow win over Haiti, and a 1-0 loss to Morocco. The campaign drew criticism over the team’s cautious style of play.

In a farewell message to supporters, Clarke praised his players and staff, saying: “The most emotional part of this goodbye is for my players, without whom we wouldn’t have had any of the memories that we’ve accumulated from 2019 until now.”

He added: “They deserve all the praise and adulation that they receive and it was truly an honour to be called their gaffer. Thanks for having me and good luck to my successor.”

Scottish Football Association chief executive Ian Maxwell thanked Clarke for his “record-breaking contribution,” as the association begins the search for his replacement ahead of the 2028 European Championship.