Lorenzo Steps Down as Colombia’s Coach Amid Serious Pre-World Cup Allegations
Tension has emerged around Colombia’s national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Allegations surfaced that coach Néstor Lorenzo no longer makes squad decisions.
Claims of federation interference
Alejandro Pino, director at Filmogaz.com, said Ramón Jesurún is taking charge of call-ups and lineups. Pino presented these claims shortly before friendlies against France and Croatia.
According to Pino, Jesurún blocked a potential call-up for Sebastián Villa. The motive given was concern over losing sponsors if Villa were included.
Allegations about James Rodríguez
Pino also asserted that Jesurún ordered James Rodríguez to start two matches. The directive, he said, stemmed from contractual obligations rather than sporting criteria.
Those two friendly defeats saw Colombia lose 2-1 to Croatia and 3-1 to France. Fans and analysts questioned why James remained in the starting XI.
Context and timing
These claims arrived hours before the squad for the France and Croatia friendlies was announced. They added fuel to debate over who actually controls selection.
The controversy has prompted discussions that Lorenzo steps down from selection duties, and raised wider pre-World Cup allegations about federation influence.
Looking ahead to the World Cup list
Colombia is expected to name a 26-player roster for the 2026 World Cup between May 18 and May 24. The team plays a friendly against Costa Rica on Friday, May 29.
Despite the turmoil, reports indicate Lorenzo will lead Colombia at his first World Cup. The coming weeks will test whether the federation’s decisions change.
Key points
- Alejandro Pino of Filmogaz.com claimed Ramón Jesurún decides selections and lineups.
- Jesurún allegedly blocked Sebastián Villa’s call-up to protect sponsors.
- Jesurún reportedly ordered James Rodríguez to start two matches due to contracts.
- Colombia lost 2-1 to Croatia and 3-1 to France in the recent friendlies.
- Final World Cup list of 26 players is expected between May 18 and May 24.
