The French Volleyball Federation confirmed that Cesar Hernandez Gonzalez will step down as head coach of the France women’s national volleyball team after his contract was not renewed following a difficult 2026 season.
The Spanish coach departs after two years in charge, with the federation already considering candidates to replace him ahead of the 2027 international season.
France struggled to build on their previous success, narrowly avoiding relegation from the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) before losing to Greece in the round of 16 at the European Championship.
The decision came after a detailed season review led by national technical director Axelle Guiguet and indoor performance director Marc Francastel.
Guiguet acknowledged Hernandez’s contribution, particularly during his promising first season in 2025, when France reached the quarterfinals of the Women’s Volleyball World Championship. However, she explained that the team had been unable to maintain that momentum, despite encouraging performances during the European Championship group stage.
Hernandez, whose two-year contract included an extension option, also faced challenges at club level. He combined his national team duties with coaching Polish side DevelopRes Rzeszów during the 2025/26 season but was dismissed by the club in February 2026.
With France already qualified for the 2027 World Cup, the federation is now focused on rebuilding momentum and improving preparations for future international competitions.
Officials also plan to review player recovery schedules and injury prevention measures following concerns about the demanding transition between domestic and international volleyball seasons.
Several candidates are under consideration for the vacant head coaching position, with the French Volleyball Federation expecting to announce Hernandez’s successor within the coming weeks.