NEW YORK, July 20 (Xinhua) -- Belgium coach Rudi Garcia will not extend his contract when it expires at the end of July, the Royal Belgian Football Association announced Monday.

The RBFA said the French coach enjoyed a successful 19-month spell in charge, which ended with a run to the World Cup quarterfinals.

"Rudi Garcia took up his role on Feb. 1, 2025, as the successor to Domenico Tedesco. Under his technical leadership, the Belgian Red Devils secured their place in League A of the UEFA Nations League and qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

"At the World Cup, the Belgian Red Devils were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Spain, who went on to become world champion," the RBFA said.

Belgium lost 2-1 to Spain thanks to a late winner by Mikel Merino, but remained the only team to score against the eventual champion during the tournament. Spain conceded just one goal in eight matches.

"After discussions with the RBFA, we have decided not to extend the excellent journey we have shared over the past 18 months," Garcia said. He thanked his "outstanding group of players, Sports Director Vincent Mannaert, and the fans who supported us throughout this World Cup."