The FAW National Coaches Conference is an annual event that attracts the biggest names in the game to discuss new ideas, trends and innovations in football coaching. The latest edition will be held on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026 online and in-person at Dragon Park and Celtic Manor Resort, Newport.
The two-day event combines entertaining and insightful theory lectures with World Class practical sessions. It also serves as revalidation for UEFA Qualified Coaches. Previous editions have featured FAW National Team case studies and former guests include Carlo Ancelotti, Mikel Arteta, Thierry Henry, Rhian Wilkinson, Anita Asante and Tim Cahill.
Roberto Martinez announced as first guest speaker
The first guest speaker announced for the 2026 Conference is Portugal Manager Roberto Martinez. Having started his managerial career in Wales with Swansea City – where he won the EFL League One title and Manager of the Year award – Martinez gained experience coaching in the English Premier League with Wigan and Everton.
The Spaniard has since gone on to manage some of the World’s biggest stars on the international stage as Manager of the Belgium and Portugal national teams. In 2025, Martinez’s Portugal side – featuring players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva – won the UEFA Nations League.
Having completed his UEFA Pro Licence with the FAW, Martinez spoke fondly of his experience at the 2027 UEFA Nations League Draw in Brussels earlier this year.
"Wales – a national team I know really well and that’s close to my heart."
— Sgorio (@sgorio) February 12, 2026
Rheolwr @selecaoportugal Roberto Martinez 🗣️
Bydd @Cymru yn wynebu Portiwgal, Denmarc a Norwy yng ngrŵp A4 #UEFANationsLeague pic.twitter.com/ep2WG6Kgvb
Speaking about Martinez’s appearance at the 2026 National Coaches Conference, the FAW’s Chief Football Officer, Dr. David Adams said: “We are grateful to Roberto for his continued commitment to Welsh football – his success, experience and knowledge of top level football will be hugely beneficial to all our guests.”
Gaël Clichy joins Martinez in line-up
Gaël Clichy has also been announced as a guest for the 2026 event. A serial prize-winner at the top level of football, the former France international won three Premier League titles and was selected in the 2007-08 PFA Team of the Year. Currently in charge of SM Caen in the French third division, the former defender has also previously been a part of the French U21 management team as an Assistant Coach.
Following his retirement from playing, Clichy completed his UEFA B, UEFA A, and UEFA Pro Licences with the FAW. He spoke to the BBC about his experience at the 2025 FAW National Coaches Conference.
What qualifications can I revalidate?
The two-day conference offers coaches the chance to revalidate the following UEFA qualifications:
- UEFA Pro Diploma
- UEFA A Diploma
- UEFA Elite Youth A Diploma
- UEFA A Goalkeepers Diploma
- UEFA B Diploma
- UEFA B Goalkeepers Diploma
Registration process
To register for the 2026 FAW National Coaches Conference, simply follow these steps:
- Select the rate applicable to the qualification you are revalidating.
- Select ‘Buy Now’.
- Registration confirmation will be sent via automated email, please check your junk/spam folder.
- Once registered you will receive a direct invite to confirm your Coaches Voice subscription.
National Coaches Conference 2026
Learn more and book your place now
