Nice issued a statement on Friday announcing the completion of a contract extension with head coach Frank Hayes. The new contract will extend the original contract, which was due to expire in 2027, by two years, until June 30, 2029.

In the 2024/25 season, Nice, under Hayes, finished fourth in Ligue 1 with a record of 17 wins, 9 draws and 8 losses, accumulating 60 points. This earned them a spot in this season's Europa League, where they will face Roma, Fenerbahçe, Celta, Freiburg, Porto, Braga, Go Ahead Eagles and Ludogorets.

The Nice management highly recognizes Hayes's coaching performance and hopes to further demonstrate their confidence in him by renewing his contract. "We are satisfied with this contract extension," said Fabrice Boquet, president of the Nice club. "Not only because of the results, but also because the timing is perfect."

“With the transfer window officially closed, we face exciting challenges in Ligue 1 and the Europa League. We are eager to look to the future with Franck Blanc, both for personal and sporting reasons. This contract extension is a natural progression given the experiences we have shared and the understanding we have built over the past few months.”

The 54-year-old Hayes initially served as manager at lower-league clubs such as Mayenne and Changel, and also managed youth development at Rennes, Lorient, and Lens. He was promoted to first-team manager by Lens in February 2020, and in May of that year, he led the team to promotion to Ligue 1 with an undefeated record.

In July 2023, Hayes led Lens to a runner-up finish in Ligue 1, returning to the Champions League after 21 years. His performances attracted the attention of several clubs, and in July 2024, he was signed by Nice with a €2 million buyout clause.

After completing the contract extension, Hayes stated: "I will remain at Nice. I want to continue building on the foundations laid in the 2024/25 season and take the club forward. This contract extension is a testament to the trust of the President and aligns with the shared vision of everyone at Nice."

"Against the challenging backdrop facing French football, with a demanding European fixture list, we are more motivated than ever to stick to our style. The true value lies in hard work, unity and fighting spirit – not only for the players, but also for the coaching staff, the management and the entire club."

"It is against this backdrop that I have decided to continue my journey at Nice with Lilian Naris and Johan Ramalay, who have been by my side since I took office."

According to the club's latest statement, Hayes' two assistant coaches, Lillian Naris and John Lamare, have also renewed their contracts until 2029.