Canada Soccer signs coach Jesse Marsch to extension through 2030 World Cup

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With much of the planet focused on the 2026 World Cup kicking off on North American soil in less than three weeks, Canada Soccer is already looking beyond this summer.

The sport’s governing body in this country announced Monday that head coach Jesse Marsch has signed a contract extension through to the conclusion of the 2030 World Cup.

“From Day 1, I’ve felt a deep connection to this team, to this country, and to the direction of the program,” Marsch said in an e-mailed statement. “I believe Canada has tremendous potential with this generation of players and look forward to seeing the development of soccer across the country.”

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The 52-year-old American has achieved some memorable highs in his two years at the helm, leading the Canadian men to the semi-finals of the Copa America two years ago, as well as reaching an all-time program high of 26th in the FIFA rankings last year. Canada was ranked 50th when Marsch took the reins in early May, 2024.

With 12 wins, 12 draws and five losses since he took over, Canada heads into its third men’s World Cup appearance next month with designs on winning a game for the first time, as well as reaching the knockout rounds.

“Jesse’s contribution as our men’s national team coach has been exceptional, both on and off the field,” Canada Soccer chief executive officer and general secretary Kevin Blue said in the statement. “He’s instilled a clear identity and raised the competitive bar for our team.”

While no financial details were released about Marsch’s contract extension, the release did name the individuals and organizations that had made the extension possible by providing funding. Those include Vancouver Whitecaps ownership, the Carmie & Joey Saputo Foundation, Seth Boro and Jen Hamilton, the Adnani Family and a donor who has chosen to remain anonymous.