Australia's head coach Tony Popovich has signed a contract extension, extending his term until 2027.

The Football Federation of Australia announced on Friday that it has reached a contract extension agreement with national team manager Toni Popovic. The 52-year-old will continue coaching after this World Cup until the end of the 2027 Asian Cup.

During his playing career, Popovich represented Australia in one World Cup, two Confederations Cups, and two Olympic Games. After retiring in 2008, he immediately transitioned into coaching. Before taking over as head coach of Australia in September 2024, he has served as manager of Western Sydney Wanderers, Karabik, Perth Glory, Xanthi, and Melbourne Victory.

Official data shows that Popovich's record under Australia's management is 10 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses. He also led Australia to the second-longest unbeaten run in the World Cup qualifiers, becoming a key contributor to the country's qualification for the World Cup finals for the first time in 12 years.

After finalizing his contract extension, Popovich stated in a press release: "I am deeply honored to coach the Australian national team. I thoroughly enjoy this job and have never taken it for granted."

"I am now fully focused on the 2026 World Cup. I am very proud to lead the team in the World Cup, but the most important thing is to make sure our team is fully prepared and focused on the group stage matches against Turkey, the United States and Paraguay."

According to the schedule, Australia, in Group D, will face Turkey in their first World Cup match tomorrow. Their group opponents also include the United States and Paraguay, both of whom finished their matches today.

Finally, Popovich concluded: "Since taking over the team, I have always been committed to balancing Australia's long-term interests with ensuring the primary short-term goal of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is achieved."

Football Federation Australia CEO Martin Coogler added: "Reaching a contract extension agreement with Toni Popovic on the eve of the World Cup is an excellent result. Toni is a world-class coach who has proven that he can achieve results while also developing talent."

"His positive impact on the national team is undeniable – from leading the team to qualify for the World Cup finals for the first time in 12 years, to strengthening the squad depth and laying the foundation for future success. We can feel the growing enthusiasm of Australian fans."

Kugler further pointed out: "While the current focus is on the 2026 World Cup, this contract extension clarifies the future direction, allowing the Australian Football Federation to confidently plan for the post-World Cup phase, up to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia."

“Stability and continuity are crucial for our dynamic and growing young team. The 2027 Asian Cup, which follows the World Cup, provides Toni and his team with a natural transition period, giving them the opportunity to consolidate the positive momentum they have built up over the past 21 months.”

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