Overview
- Argentina’s Fernando Batista, 55, was dismissed after Venezuela failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- President Nicolás Maduro had publicly urged a restructuring of the Vinotinto’s coaching staff and strategy.
- The federation said sporting objectives for the cycle were not met and confirmed a search for a successor.
- Venezuela lost 3-6 to Colombia after twice leading, and Bolivia’s 1-0 win over Brazil pushed Venezuela out of contention.
- FIFA statutes prohibit political interference in football bodies, prompting questions over the process, with no probe reported.